The Sand Reckoner
Self-Released, 2020
9/10
Listen to Last Charge Of The Light Horse
The recording vehicle for Jean-Paul Vest, since 2004 the multi-instrumentalist has released 5 albums as Last Charge Of The Light Horse, where is unclassifiable vision of rock always unfolds with unpredictable but easily embraceable song craft.
“Just Once” starts the listener bright and busy with playful guitar, handclaps and several mouths contributing to the melodic, Spanish inflected landscape, and “Back Up The Hill” follows and soars high with a breezy, sunny approach that’s not short on harmonies.
Closer to the middle, “Running My Finger Along The Scar” recruits a flute from Gwendolyn Vest as Jonny Flaugher’s bouncy boss complements Nick Vest’s calm trumpet on the cautious tune, while “Midnight Parking Lot” resides closer to electro-pop and jazz, where synth bass from Jim Watts and drum programming add much to the hazy, stylish delivery. “Old Habits”, one of the album highlights, then explores alt-rock ideas with careful texturing and a charged intensity.
Near the end, “Balanced On The Edge” enters ballad territory amid reserved piano and synth from Eric Van Thyne, and “April Morning” exits with an orchestral slant as violin an cello from Leanne Strom and Jon Preddice help build a very graceful and innovative finish.
A very progressive album, though not in the traditional sense, Vest and company deliver a complicated, fascinating and very artistic effort that showcases immeasurable talent that, if you’re like me, will make you an instant fan.
Travels well with: Richard Thompson- 13 Rivers; Radiohead- Hail To The Thief