In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary music, few artists possess the enduring influence and innovative spirit of Paul Weller.
A recording career that began in 1977 now takes in the release of his 17th solo album and his 28th in total.
Now that’s the first paragraph from the press release and promo album that I was lucky enough to be sent by Gary Skentelbery’s good friends at Chuff Media. I know…… it’s a tough job but someone has to do it!
Of course, some press releases and magazine reviews can be lengthy and leave you scrabbling around for the dictionary but Chuff Media reviews uncannily line up with my own thinking and this press release was no exception. Weller’s new album is definitely more mature and so it should be, it’s called 66 for a reason. However, if listeners are in search of the angst of The Jam they will be hugely disappointed.
Although they will be encouraged to know there have been collaborations with Suggs, Noel Gallagher and Bobby Gillespie over the 3 years it took to assemble and make the album and their influences are notable. ‘Jumble Queen’ for example could have sat on any one of the ‘Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds’ albums and the Bobby Gillespie sound on ‘Soul Wandering’ is evident. Being a fan of Indie in all forms I think ‘Soul Wandering’ is the strongest track on the album and was a safe bet for the first single release on all digital platforms on February 23rd.
Hardcore fans of Paul Weller will find Streaming, CD and Vinyl versions of the 12 songs on “66” and I am of the opinion that most are quite mellow although very well produced. Listening on headphones reveals a whole ensemble of wind and brass instruments, even a harpsichord, perhaps leaning towards Noel Gallagher’s experimentation, but thankfully minus the scissors and tin whistle! Nevertheless, it’s a very interesting album and I was quite happy by the 2nd repeat to listen in its entirety. Keen listeners will certainly notice Wellers change in enunciation, on ‘Nothin’ and ‘My Best Friends’ he sounds like a later David Bowie with the clear expression of lyrics, almost storytelling. It is far removed from the sound of The Style Council, alas fear not die-hards, echoes of those early years can be heard on ‘Rise Up Singing’ which wouldn’t go amiss as a 007 movie soundtrack but as ever don’t take my word for it , have a listen yourself. It’s definitely worth it!
So, what’s the Warrington connection? Readers may well have seen the brilliant art work dotted around the town by local artist Matt Grainger of ‘Vinyl Soul ‘. Matt still lives in Warrington and travels regularly to Woking where he often sees the man himself – Paul Weller, to discuss and agree art work for any promotion. All of these are depicted in Matt’s unique style, namely that of the ‘faceless performer’ and are admired by many. Indeed you can catch examples of Matt’s work during the ‘Art & Photography of Music’ Exhibition organised by @UnsignedHub.com and hosted by The Gateway on Sanket Street from Aug 6th-16th.
Even better, Matt has kindly agreed to an interview with me very soon and is happy to talk about his work, influences and love of music so watch out for that soon in Warrington Worldwide Magazine.
“66” Track Listing
Ship of Fools
Flying Fish
Jumble Queen
Nothing
My Best Friend’s Coat
Rise Up Singing
I Woke Up
A Glimpse of You
Sleepy Hollow
In Full Flight
Soul Wandering
Burn Out
