2019 – Sean Taylor Songs
By Phillip Smith; June 1, 2019
The Path Into
the Blue, the ninth full-length album from London-based singer-songwriter Sean
Taylor is absolutely remarkable. I
love how this beat-poet troubadour underscores the social issues of today with
his expertly crafted lyrics. Then with a
blanket of soulful, funky, and rootsy music, his message is beautifully delivered. With Taylor on vocals and guitars, and
electric piano, Mark Hallman takes on the bass, suitcase drums, electric
piano, and Hammond organ.
A groovy disco-infused rhythm is the backdrop as Taylor
tears off his quick-fire rant against Brexit, hipster culture, addictions, corporate
greed, and the dark side of the internet in “This is England”. Wordless backing vocals from Stephanie
Daulong add a very cool Pink Floyd-esque touch to the song. The 2013 Lampedusa migrant shipwreck is the melancholic
subject of “Lampedusa”. Andre Moran
makes a guest appearance on guitar for this beautifully executed performance. The sounds of a pedal steel guitar played by Henry
Senior gently ushers the melodic “In the Name of God” into play. However, when the saxophone and backing
vocals finally arrive, this floaty anti-hate song delightfully breaks the boundaries
between country, jazz, and gospel. Taylor’s
slightly gravelly vocals and the irresistible, delicate melody on “Tobacco and
Whiskey” naturally remind me of the finest works of the great Tom Waits.
It is definitely one of my favorites.
The album is certainly an amazing listen. I highly recommend it.
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