Twisted
Self-Release, 2025
9/10
The Canadian guitarist and singer-songwriter Mark Thackway brings his organic vision to these 6 authentic songs that welcome Andrew Collins, James McEleney and John Dymond.
The warm spirit of “Wunderlust” opens with Collins’ bright mandolin alongside Thackway’s expressive storytelling in the raw, folk climate, and “Time To Go” follows with McEleny’s playful bass that suits the rhythmic guitar and firm vocals.
“Fly” and “Liberty” land in the middle. The former is a dreamy moment of meticulous guitar and harmonic interaction, while the latter recruits Dymond’s skilled bass via the heartfelt EP highlight.
Close the end, “Twisted” swirls with a lush energy that allows for intricate picking, and “Song For You” exits with just Thackway’s cozy guitar and inviting voice for the timeless and sincere songwriting.
An immediately enjoyable listen that blends roots, bluegrass, country, folk and Americana, Thackway’s got a deep resume that goes back to 1984 when he was a founding member of 1984, and all these decades later he’s still penning relatable and touching tunes.
Travels well with: David Francey- Maps- Songs Of David Francey; Lennie Gallant- Shelter From The Storms