Now And The Evermore
Compass, 2022
8/10
Listen to Now And The Evermore
The lead vocalist for the legendary outfit Men At Work, Colin Hay is no stranger to many different variations of rock, and here he offers us 10 diverse songs that are packed with melody, sincerity and grit.
The title track starts the listen with Hay’s unmistakable vocals surrounded by trombone, pump organ, and glockenspiel, as well as the usual suspects, in the timeless pop-rock formula, and “Love Is Everywhere” follows with strings entering the multi-faceted, soulful version of rock.
“Starfish And Unicorns” lands in the middle, and recruits plenty of romantic atmosphere that’s quite emotive, while “A Man Without A Name” brings bright brass and no shortage of rhythm to the dance floor ready climate.
Arriving near the end, “Agatha Bell” uses bongos, tambourine and cozy backing vocals for the breezy textures, and “When Does The End Begin?” exits the listen with Hay handling 3 different guitars in the very mature, folk-influenced finish.
A record intended to be packed with as much beauty as possible, Hay has certainly lived a fulfilled life, and his appreciation for the journey is reflected in these wise, earnest and thoughtful gems.
Travels well with: Bruce Cockburn- Greatest Hits (1970-2020); Old Salt Union- Where The Dogs Don’t Bite