Former guitarist/vocalist of The Gaslight Anthem, Brian Fallon, returns with his second solo album; a stunning collection of blues, rock and punk that flow in a beautiful narrative that is impossible not to be caught up in.
It could be argued that there is perhaps little by way of growth from the days of The Gaslight Anthem, but this is one of those rare instances where that is no bad thing. There are many, myself included, who are quite content to continue letting Fallon do what he does best.
The album continues the trend of being honest and heart wrenching in the Springsteen/Petty inspired fashion we’ve come to expect from Fallon. Tracks such as ‘Etta James’, ‘Her Majesty’s Service’ and ‘Proof of Life’ delve into the softer, more open side, before flipping completely into something more fast-paced and guitar led, such as the track ‘Little Nightmare’.
The 12 tracks offered here play out in such a way that allows for a natural flow, ensuring the listen is one that does not have you reaching for the skip button. The pace is well executed, balancing the soft and the fast well without the notion of repetition.
This album is extremely difficult not to enjoy, to be caught up in the flow of old fashion rock, no gimmicks, nothing but the simple, important things. When things are done as well as they are here, there is no need to push boundaries, just enjoy the show.
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BRIAN FALLON UK TOUR DATES (w / Dave Hause)
