Good Morning Ireland
Red Pass, 2024
9/10
Listen to Good Morning Ireland
The New Jersey resident and singer-songwriter Brian Mackey returns with a sophomore album, where 16 tracks that take influence from his time as a contractor and are filled with plenty of introspective ideas.
The warm spirit of “More Than Anyone” starts with Jeff King and Jim Kimball’s cozy acoustic guitars that suit Mackey’s expressive voice, and “Cold” follows with Jason Webb’s intimate keys that complement the emotive singing of the rich delivery.
Moving deeper into the listen, “Saturday Night Sleeping” welcomes Tammy King’s stirring violin and Steve Brewster’s agile drumming via the poetic landscape, while “Fill Your Empty” places special effects and playfulness into the heartfelt mood.
Closer to the end, “Take My Life Back” places Mark Hill on bass and Kimball on dobro amid the rootsy flavor and gentle melodies, and “Count The Stars” exits with a live selection that’s powerful and eloquent, as Mackey’s gripping voice draws us in.
Mackey has recently lost a son, but also welcomed a daughter, and the balance of highs and lows is very much a part of this thoughtful affair that embraces country, folk, Americana, roots and rock.
Travels well with: Bonnie & Taylor Sims- Bonnie & Taylor Sims; Molly Miller Trio- The Ballad Of Hotspur