Jonathan Tarplee
Album: Attachment Theories
Label: Bys Records
Tracks: 7
Website: http://jonathantarplee.com/

Cheshire based singer-songwriter Jonathan Tarplee brings us a mini album of self penned songs, six of which are from his solo repertoire and a further bonus track coming from that of The Blue Yellows, the band in which he pays lead guitar and takes main vocal duties, as well as song writing duties....much as he does on all tracks here.

It's generally a good sign of things to come when the opening few bars of an album grab your attention instantly, and here a combination of unusual guitar and vocal styles do just that, and ensure that you are ready for this observational journey, sometimes reflective, sometimes questioning and sometimes well, sometimes capable of taking you another place for a second or two! Backing vocals are subtly employed, as are additional musicians to varying degrees to complete an appealing and engaging record.

The songs differ greatly in style, ensuring that there's no lapse, no chance of allowing the songs to drift by without creating an impression, yet somehow there's no majorly addictive hook until maybe the bonus track 'No tobacco, no Jesus'.....this though no bad thing, as there is enough of interest to make you want to go back, to listen again at Jonathan's worldly musings, and his take on what life is, what it should be, or indeed what it could be....

A decent collection this, nothing the least bit predictable or run of the mill.....a voice and a sentiment to lift you from your weary slumber, maybe to lighten your load a little, or maybe just to gently wash over you as this mad world unfolds around you.....

James Cosgrove