Soundcheck Magazine - Volume 10

 

Sarah Blackwood - Wasting Time

 

By Chris Rockson

Wolverine Records - WRR165 - Europe, STOMP in Canada/US

Release Date : April 13th 2010

Every now and again, I come across a real gem, amongst a sea of mediocrity and in some cases, just pure rubbish...well, when I opened the mail to find another set of discs from Wolverine, my heart started racing....could this be the one time I discover yet another work of art? Don't get me wrong here guys, I love, LOVE LOVE music, and listen to tons of albums sent for review each week, but sometimes it's quite a pleasant surprise to get something to listen to, minus an overdriven amplifier and breakneck paced songs.

Well, lemme tell y'all...if ya like your country/folk/punk and acoustic...you're bang in luck!! This album completely blew me away! Sarah, for those that may not be aware of her portfolio, is known for fronting that Psycho-billy band, The Creepshow, another great band. However, this is a complete departure from that stuff, following on from her epic release 'Way Back Home' from 2008. This compilation of fine country classics showcases Sarah's talent for writing beautifully crafted, perfectly sung melody, from the opening strains of 'Wasting Time' to to 'Corrs'-like 'Way Round', co-arranged with her brother Ian.

Put this baby on the car stereo and I promise you, you will NOT remove it...it really is THAT GOOD!

'Sunshine Serenade', written by Irish artist Stefan Murphy is an outstanding song, with a gospel feel about it, and a strong message within it's very dark rooted soul...powerful stuff indeed and executed brilliantly by the band. Keeping with the gospel theme for the finale, 'Drags Me Down' Sarah shows her wide appreciation for all musical styles and an abundance of ability.

Sarah goes out on tour during May to showcase the album - make sure you go see and tell her we sent ya!

 

Check out Sarah RIGHT HERE

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