A Mark In Time
Mark Knopfler Discussion => Mark Knopfler Discussion Forum => Topic started by: 3Pints on August 11, 2014, 08:39:06 AM
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I had an opportunity to listen to John Illsley's new album, Testing the Water several times through at a friend's place this weekend. I took some notes, while quaffing 3 pints of my favourite ale of course, then sat down today to write this review. I initially posted it for the folks at the Mark Knopfler/Dire Straits forum, Silvertown Blues, and then thought I'd pop in here and post it as well.
I hope some of you enjoy, or find it useful..... (and please accept my apology in advance for any errors or oversights).
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Testing the Water - John Illsley
-- a 3Pints review --
There is definitely a theme running through John Illsley's latest album, Testing the Water. In an interview just prior to the album's release, John said, "The last few years have been so turbulent politically, militarily and personally and I wanted to try and create some songs that reflected these strange times and perhaps were worthy of sharing with others."
So it's not surprising then that some of the lyrics in these songs express at various times, angst, despair, confusion, and frustration. John's weathered voice suits these themes well and that, along with his sometimes overly earnest sounding delivery on these songs will for many I suspect, successfully disguise the fact that his lyrics are often rather hackneyed and clich
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Thanks for your detailed view. I must admit to turning off the Railway song on yt, within seconds of hearing shockingly bad lyrics. :( it's not easy writing stylish songs.
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A must buy then! Almost? Thank you anyway for the detailed review!
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You should write more on AMIT.
:wave
LE
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Many thanks 3Pints for the review and it's good to see you again here - you are welcome any time! :wave
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I'm not a big fan of Illsley, but he has done some nice tunes. Toe the Line is my personal favourite.
On Testing the Water, Darling Heart stands out. Interesting mix of musical inspirations, and some good lyric lines.
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Thanks for your detailed view. I must admit to turning off the Railway song on yt, within seconds of hearing shockingly bad lyrics. :( it's not easy writing stylish songs.
Hehe... too true, Fletch.
As a songwriter myself, and knowing that it takes some effort to write good lyrics, I was trying to be gentle in my review. But you're absolutely right; and to be honest I found myself actually laughing out loud on several occasions at how "shockingly bad" the lyrics are on this album. :o
Over-all I think it's one of those albums where, if you can divorce yourself from the lyrics and concentrate only on the music, there are some pleasantly listenable moments. Otherwise, I'd recommend moving on to whatever's next on the playlist.... ;)
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A must buy then! Almost? Thank you anyway for the detailed review!
Thanks vgonis!
No, I'd say it's a must-buy only for die-hard John Illsley fans and completists. Otherwise it's maybe worth listening to once or twice for the music, but NOT a recommended purchase.
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You should write more on AMIT. :wave
LE
Thank you, LE. Those few words are appreciated more than I can tell you.
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Cheers!
LE