Home Recordings, Martin Simpson
Nov 13, 2020 11:19:37 GMT
Phil Taylor, Welshruss, and 1 more like this
Post by andyhowell on Nov 13, 2020 11:19:37 GMT
I bought Simpson's new 'Home Recordings' album this morning and was pleasantly surprised!
I say pleasantly surprised as I'd not really liked some of the videos he posted a couple of the tracks. Robin Williams' October Song was one of these. It sounded far to ornate and fussy an arrangement to me and this from a man who gave me the best advice ever about 4300 years ago — play less notes!
Before buying this I took the opportunity to play it through on a streaming service. And I was pleasantly surprised.
Although this is titled 'Home Recordings' these tracks are very well recorded. The sound on some of Martin's lockdown stuff has been bit off for me but here the album has studio clarity.
This is a collection of songs and tunes, which might make more sense to those who really prefer his instrumental albums. In tone it reminds me of the Vagrant Stanzas album. There are cover songs and some originals. Some of the songs and tunes are on other albums but these arrangements are fresh and work well. Some are making welcome returns. Admiral Benbow is a song that originally appeared on A Cut Above his album with June Tabor (with June singing) but here Simpson sings it effectively —and it is great to hear that guitar arrangement again. There are guitar tunes, banjo tunes and uke tunes.
The album highlights what I have always thought was Simpson's strength, his ability as an arranger. These arrangements have clearly been crafted over many hours of practice and contemplation.
I'm glad I like it as I half expected to not do so. The last few times that I have seen him live the over ornate style seemed to be dominating and to be honest left me a bit cold — musically always wins over sheer speed of technique. But on this album I think he has got the balance right. THe playing is excellent and the arrangements often wonderful. And Andy Bell as producer has bought out the best in Simpson's singing.
Worth a look.