A widespread trait of the UK country scene is the demand for
artists to include an abundance of covers in their live shows. While there is
certain merit in interpreting the songs of others, the true health of any genre
is defined by the creative development of original material Therefore it is
commendable when an artist takes this progressive stance and ventures out with
a selection of new songs, especially when they themselves have been immersed in
the covers scene. On the evidence of this five-track EP titled THIS COWBOY’HEART,
Greater Manchester based Irishman Gary Quinn has the talent to carve out a
successful career as a credible singer-songwriter, collaborator and artist
brave enough to showcase new songs.In line with some of the finest Music Row output, Gary has demonstrated the knack of crafting a well constructed song that sublimely fits so well with the array of instruments providing the authentic country sound. Repeated plays of the opening and title track ‘This Cowboy’s Heart’ confirm an outstanding song that is adorned with a wonderful melodic chorus accompanied by complementary keyboards, guitar and pedal steel, all telling the simple tale of the iconic cowboy.
The danger of such a strong opening track is it sets a too
high standard to follow but Gary has made an admirable attempt to match the heights
of this outstanding number. ‘Keep on
Playin’ has a more up tempo beat to it with a catchy chorus that will embed
itself into the mind of regular listeners. In contrast to the pace of this
song, Gary shows his worth has a ballad composer with the next track, the
heartfelt ‘He Don’t Show Her Anymore’.
Once again the chorus is a striking feature of a song that ticks plenty of
boxes from the country music repertoire.
The ballad theme continues with ‘Tin Man’ a number that explores the world of a certain late thirties
Hollywood blockbuster to act as an analogy for the message of this song. ‘Live Each Day’ is an ideal closing track
with its uplifting message and consisting of gentle verses leading into a
rousing chorus. Like all songs in the collection, the opportunity to hear them
live should be an enhancing experience and regular festival goers at Wolvestock
and Americana will get the opportunity next summer.
In the meantime Gary Quinn continues to hone his craft with
a repeat involvement in the Nashville songwriter’s circle that makes regular
visits to the UK and this should aid his future development. THIS COWBOY’S
HEART is surely a mere taster and hopefully a signal for further original material to
emanate from this fine country singer-songwriter and his co-collaborators.
He Don't Show Her Anymore