This 4-track EP is comprised of Elvis Costello interpretations in collaboration with Steve Nieve of The Imposters / The Attractions. It comes ahead of an extended Country Darkness project that will feature further exploration and reworking of numerous Costello country songs for duet.
REVIEW:
The first single 'Heart Shaped Bruise' starts with a meandering piano solo which is a fantastic accompaniment for Lou Dalgleish's haunting vocal. Soon one voice becomes two with the introduction of Michael Weston King. Together they are not only 'My Darling Clementine' but they are also husband and wife. Lyrically the story tells of a relationship break-up and the songs dramatic musical arrangement puts me in mind of a song from a west end show. He feels hurt because she is leaving and she is leaving because she feels she's been hurt.
'Stranger In The House' is an uptempo song that takes me back to the sixties with its sound and feel. Its about a couple who have fallen out of love with each other. She feels he's changed and he feels unwelcome in his own house. This is one of those songs that gets you singing along more or less instantaneously as it has a melody that sticks in your head.
'That Day Is Done' is my favourite track on the EP. It takes gospel influences and blends them perfectly with more than just a hint of blues making this the stand out song for me. It's about losing someone you love.
The last song on the EP is a beautiful ballad. 'I Felt The Chill Before The Winter Came' is about noticing the signs and feeling the difference in someones feelings for you as the relationship cools. The love has dimmed. This drives you to seek solace somewhere else.
This is a lovely EP. It is refreshingly different and would really give your music collection something extra special.
Country Darkness Vol.1 will be released via Fretsore Records on digital services worldwide and on limited edition vinyl.
Fans can pre-order the vinyl at https://mydarlingclementinemusic.co.uk/store/
For further information please contact Brendan McCarthy
Email:Brendan@fretsorerecords.com / M: 07783 574868
