Martin Harley – Mojo Fix (60/20 Records).

Welcome to the big time, Martin Harley! He mixes things up with the Reggae beat of Rum Shack and acoustic Folk of Cardboard King, the latter rivalling current overlords, Sheerin and Howard. However, it’s when he unleashes Ry Cooder influenced electric slide on Working For The Man, Mean Old City and Ball & Chain that he shines. The title track hints towards White Stripes and Outlaw has markings of rebel Country. Wrecking Ball highlights Jazz, Blues and Big Band whereas Tightrope and Treading Water show acoustic class, the former a marriage of Paolo Nutini and The Stereophonics. Harley has it all – voice, guitar artistry and the songs. Can’t wait for a live performance!

 

www.martinharley.com

 

David Blue.

Alan Turner – When One Door Closes Another One Opens (Self Produced).

Former frontman of Lost City Soul, Turner sets out on his own with this 4 track EP. Opening with the Celtic inflected indie rock of Angel and the 80’s throwback Dance Until The Night Falls he gets the listener involved from the beginning. Paris is dance orientated and although there’s not much variation, an additional quirky middle eight and extra bass could prove beneficial. The best track on offer is the Oasis inspired Open Door. Good vocal performance in the higher range and with some lyrical polishing he could have a chance. The songs are raw and further production will help but the basic building blocks are there.

 

https://soundcloud.com#alanturnermusic

 

David Blue.

Erja Lyytinen – Forbidden Fruit (RUF Records).

 

Finnish songstress Lyytinen’s latest album shows a more personal side and the bittersweet Joyful Misery is a fine example.  She goes through her emotions in a number of styles, highlighted on the funky Soul, slow Blues and Jazz of Hold On Together. Blues themes permeate the album with the eponymous title track being a contemporary Blues, Lil Johnson’s Press My Button continuing the tradition of Blues double entendre and Things About Coming My Way traditional Delta.  Her trademark slide playing is apparent on Son House’s Death Letter. However, no matter what she plays, everything is backed with emotion laden vocals, wonderful harmonies and expert guitar playing.

 

www.erjalyytinen.com

www.rufrecords.de

 

David Blue.