Album Review: Paul McClure - The Good and the Bad of It
Paul McClure makes a welcome return as a recording artist. He successfully simplifies the process of conveying sentiment through ten songs forming an album enriching any zone commandeered. THE GOOD AND THE BAD OF IT is a timely reminder that when resourced and focussed, the Rutland Troubadour can mix it with the best in his field. On a professional level, McClure is defined by the duality of an exceptional songwriter and the exponent of impeccably timed wit. The stage entertainingly blends both, while the former thrives in a studio setting.
The poetic strands of everyday feelings weave into a collection of finely constructed songs, while words and music collide in a haven of poignant perception. Themes and musings swing from implicit intent to moments of lucid interpretation. Nature and nurture likely play a role in the songwriting gift and an innate talent is meticulously polished.
McClure headed south from his East Midlands home to East Sussex where the Bex-Pop studio of Trevor Moss is located. Moss, a recording artist in his own right, also handled the production duties. This partnership enabled belief to prosper and space was afforded for the lyrics, voice and music to absorb into the entity of the finished piece. Minor instrumentation and spontaneous vocal addition apply a light coating to a raw component needing only slight enhancement. The result is a slice of honest reality.
The seeds of lyrical pontification spring up in: ‘I’m not lost, I just don’t know where I’m going’ as a light is shone inwards on album opener ‘I’m Not Lost’. This contemplative song eases into the tender communication of ‘Find the Time’. Thoughts get a little deeper in title track ‘The Good and Bad of It’ as the record begins to take shape.
Sonic diversity comes with the moderately punchy ‘First Thoughts of the Day’ and the grittier tones to ‘Across the Water’, the latter containing a stronger guitar presence. Sandwiched between this pair are a trio of tracks extolling the worth of the investment. ‘Don’t Take Your Kisses With You’ leaves a message to ponder, while ‘Maybe Now, Maybe Then’ induces a smile with standout pretensions and the memorable line: ‘I’d have chosen the longer song, Freebird extended version’ in relation to a first wedding dance. This song is rivalled for appreciation by the clever and humorous ‘ I Am the Man Who Fell in Love With You’.
The influence of Dylan is detected in the impactful penultimate number ‘U Do U’ before the end point arrives with the delightful charm of lightly strummed ‘Take Me As I Am’. An ideal closer landing as a heartfelt plea.
Paul McClure dissects disposition and reassembles the pieces into appealing song across the span of THE GOOD AND BAD OF IT. Hence, confirming a lyricist of major standing and an exhibitor of appealing music.
Comments
Post a Comment