Resurgence
BMG, 2019
8/10
Though he retired two decades ago, Allan Clarke, the former frontman of the Hollies, returns with 10 new tunes where his inimitable skill is resurrected and sounds as if not a day has passed.
“Journey Of Regret” starts the listen with spirited guitar work alongside Clarke’s gritty, soaring vocals on the fluid country tinged opener, and “You Broke My Heart” follows with a melodic rocker that glides with a strong rhythm section that’s even danceable.
In the middle, “I’m Only Sleeping” enters blues territory with emotive vocals from Clarke, while “Heart Of Stone” recruits strong riffing and classic rock nods on the thumping rocker. “I Don’t Know The Reason”, one of the album’s best tracks, then finds a darker place to reside with a timeless, introspective appeal.
At the end, “Long Cool Woman’s Back In Town” flows with nostalgic rhythm in a retro-rocker alongside harmonica solos that is most closely linked with his time fronting Hollies, and “I’m Comin’ Home” exits the listen with keys and robust percussion on the dreamy, soaring conclusion.
If you were a fan of Clarke’s work back in the day, you certainly won’t be disappointed here, and if this is your first taste of his song craft, and you appreciate calculated, memorable rock tunes that take influence from some of the most elegant genres, you will also find much intrigue within. Recorded at home using modern technology at his own pace, let’s hope that this isn’t an isolated effort from Clarke, as he’s clearly got much creativity left to share.
Travels well with: The Kinks- Arthur Or The Decline And Fall Of The British Empire 50th Anniversary; John Fogerty- 50 Year Trip