Keep On Running
Tiny Mountain, 2020
8/10
A UK multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter, Joe Edwards has been plugging away since the age of 16, and ended up in Nashville to record this debut album where folk, Americana, roots and blues ideas are in attendance.
“Beth’s Song” starts the listen with sublime pedal steel as breathy vocals from Edwards steer the pretty Americana setting, and “Capital Blues” follows with some timeless folk sensibilities amid the brushed percussion and bouncy bass lines that point towards the ‘70s.
Near the middle, “The Gambler” stays bare but impactful with aching, introspective song craft, while “Trouble” picks up the pace with organs and calculated bluesy prowess. The title track is one of the album’s best, and recruits a playful spirit with plenty of folksy, country-esque rhythm.
Near the end, “Back On The Road” finds itself in a breezy, gentle moment with a rootsy flavor, and “Mine Oh Mine” finishes out the listen with strong guitar work as the stylish blues unfolds with both precision and power.
A global wanderer, Edwards penned these tunes in different parts of the world, but it was all recorded live in one room with all players on hand, resulting in an intimate and spontaneous warmth to a very impressive start to what will likely be a flourishing career.
Travels well with: Gordon Thomas Ward- Eiderdown; Glenn Thomas- Reassure Me There’s A Window