Though We Have Only Love
Orchard/Sony, 2026
9/10
Listen to Though We Have Only Love
The poet and songwriter Larry Beckett returns with a 5th album, where a tribute to the Belgian singer Jacques Brel is fleshed out by an all star cast.
“Litany For A Return” opens with Mike Hodgins’ thumping drums alongside Beckett’s talk/singing in the crisp folk-rock climate, and it isn’t long until the cautious “I Don’t Know” offers an emotive and poetic moment with Stuart Anthony’s soft guitar.
Arriving near the middle, “The Dove” enlists James Edge’s warm keys amid a darker mood that’s mesmerizing, while “Don’t Walk Away” is a powerful and bare moment that pairs Beckett’s pleading voice with gentle guitar.
Deeper still, spoken word surrounds “Juliet” via much eloquence, and the title track exits with a more rock focused approach that makes great use of Matt Canty’s bass.
An effort that captures the poeticism and passion of the originals, we’re treated to driving rock anthems and no lack of intimacy across this very literate and touching record.
Travels well with: Edelston & Dulcimer- Making Waves; Fox And Bones- Long Time Honey