…meanwhile
OK! Good, 2021
8/10
A long running singer-songwriter from the UK who has enjoyed global appreciation since his first record in 2009, Jon Allen brings profound talent and immense experience to this 5th album where he shines in moments of intimacy as well as fuller folk-rock.
“Blame It All On Me” starts the listen with bare guitar as Allen’s raspy, tuneful vocals display much emotion in the cautious pop-rock setting that welcomes strings, and “Can’t Hold Back The Sun” continues with a playful folk-rocker that’s not short on melody in it acoustic guitar heavy delivery that’s immediately a sing-along.
Closer to the middle, “Mercy” displays intricate musicianship in a dreamy climate, while “Suzanne” emits much beauty as Allen’s keen attention to detail shines through amid the absorbing pop melodies. “The Other Side”, one of the record’s best, then illustrates a poetic appeal alongside light keys, gentle drumming and Allen’s gritty pipes that guide the ballad.
Nearing the end, the piano rocker “Hold On” offers an anthemic quality with a triumphant demeanor and “Wrong” exits the listen bare, eloquent and full of timelessness as Allen’s powerful songwriting impresses us in its raw presence.
Allen handles vocals and guitars here, and he’s in the company of Rich Milner (organ), Adam Skinner (strings), Pat Levett (drums), and Sharon Shannon (accordion). Together, they produce another exceptional body of work that will resonate with those who enjoy David Gray, Damien Rice, Joseph Arthur or Marc Broussard.
Travels well with: Emily Barker- A Dark Murmuration Of Words; Peter Himmelman- Press On