Jonathan
Ferguson – Sweeter After Difficulties (Independent)
Calgary singer-songwriter Jonathan Ferguson appears
to be an authentic throwback to a time when the song and its melody were
everything, and distractions like image and rampant promotion were inconsequential
or simply avoided. Of course, those things were always important, in various
degrees, and a non-image is an image in itself. Still, Ferguson certainly gives
the impression of an uncomplicated singer-songwriter, with stories to tell and
tunes to share.
“Sweeter After Difficulties” is Ferguson’s debut
collection, and unsurprisingly, in his native Canada it has considerably raised
his profile. The 13 songs are distinctive and engaging, with production that
varies from lush strings and full band arrangements to simple, percussive
guitar strums. Whatever the approach, Ferguson places his words high in the mix
and centre stage, singing his songs about ordinary people and the situations in
which they find themselves; quite possibly the only real definition of
folksong.
As with the majority of songwriters, Ferguson rarely
writes about himself. Instead taking on characters and themes that range from
unrequited love to conflicts of conscience, but as the title suggests, the
ability to overcome these trials and tribulations is where strength is to be
found. There is no shortage of standout tracks on “Sweeter After Difficulties”.
Opener “Ballerina” sets a scene of love gone
awry, and “House On the Water” is all about
escape. Perhaps my favourite is “Sunrise At the Airport”,
a paean to love, and it’s a big hook-laden pop song, which, if there were any
justice, would be taking up residence on a radio near you.
Tony S.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: only a member of this blog may post a comment.