Aaron Huff
– Bloodstone For Courage (Independent)
Aaron Huff is a writer of both songs and short
fiction, so it’s no surprise that his words take centre-stage on his new album
“Bloodstone For Courage”. It’s the right decision, as he possesses a keen turn
of phrase and an ear for a clever rhyme. Musically things are kept pretty
simple, with guitar and voice taking most of the strain, and although it’s a
basic, uncluttered production, there’s nothing lo-fi about the result.
Thematically, there’s not much in the way of light
and shadow. It’s a brooding, ominous collection of songs, which catalogue
disappointment and despondency, which either finds Huff in a particularly dark
place, or he’s got a remarkable talent for getting inside a character and
relating to his doubts, fears and worries. I suspect it’s the latter – he’s a
writer of stories; making this stuff up must be second nature.
As for the songs themselves, what they lack in pithy
one-liners, they more than compensate with melodic hooks and strong narratives.
He begins with “Our Hero”, a rumination on loss and learning to accept it. “Small Town Tragedy” wanders a similar path and “Four Years On” is gently affecting and brings to mind
both John Prine and Cat Stevens. Other highlights include the evocative “Warm Beer” and the powerful final track “Martyr Me Baby”.
Tony S.
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: only a member of this blog may post a comment.