2017 – Ivor Simpson - Kennedy
By Phillip Smith;
July 22, 2017
Ivor
S.K. is quickly climbing to the top of my list of favorite
songwriters. One year has lapsed since
his critically acclaimed EP, Delta Pines
crossed my desk. I loved that disc. I adore his latest release, Montserrat as well. This debut full-length album consists of ten
original masterpieces steeped in blues. Montserrat showcases the genius of Ivor
Simpson-Kennedy, with each song written, arranged and performed by the
artist himself.
I quickly latch on to the marching rhythm of breakup
song “Don’t Say Goodbye” while enjoying the slick rockabilly guitar licks. The hook in “Ain’t No Cross” masterfully induces
a double-take, while tackling one of the largest white elephants on the planet. His
tale of double-crossing drug dealers in the Caribbean-flavored “I’ve Been Had”
is a sheer delight. It is funky and
contagious.
“It’s Raining”, beautiful and melancholy, sinks in
deep. His performance on acoustic guitar
is absolutely lovely. The jazzy homage
to the Big Easy in “Take Me Back to New Orleans” is vibrant and alluring,
painting pictures of exploring the local music scene and chilling at the
world-famous Beignets.
Listening to Ivor S.K. reminds me of
listening to Tom Waits for the first time, being caught up in the wonderfully
raspy voice, the musicianship, and the songs.. those killer songs. This album indeed stands up and stands out.
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Here's a quick link to check out my review of Ivor S.K.'s Delta Pines EP -> https://phillycheezeblues.blogspot.com/2016/05/ivor-sk-delta-pines.html
