If you are looking for variation; if you are looking for a hip hop happening evening of entertainment; if you are on a bit of a downer and going South, probably best to stay clear of this one. What you do get is an intense, in depth exhibition of melancholic music which, when you listen to it, has some magical moments. None more so than ‘Strange encounter’ which hits you about half way through as the opener to Side 3.
The depth I hinted at remains throughout matched only by Father John’s vocal offering. It probably is an LP that requires a few listens but the effort required is well worth it. This is not an LP for the download generation. It’s a package, to be enjoyed in the whole. I must make mention of the label. They are just lovely and mainstream record labels would do well to take a look and show what can be done to spice up the middle of an LP.
There is a lot to be had here as a double LP and well worth reaching into if you aren’t familiar with Father John’s work. The production is excellent and clarity on each track well worth a shout. It concludes with a stunning track, ‘I went to the store one day’ which belies the music that went before it.
