When he first emerged in the ’90s, cherub-faced Toronto singer-songwriter Ron Sexsmith drew praise from the likes of Elvis Costello, Paul McCartney and Ray Davies, among others. All cited his way with a simple melody and a succinct lyrical approach. (One of his best songs, ‘Secret Heart’ from his debut was covered by Rod Stewart). A frequent visitor to Ireland, he was hugely popular for a time and could easily fill a venue like Dublin’s Olympia back in the late ’90s.
Since then, his fortunes have been mixed and while the critics have consistently raved about his albums, this praise was rarely matched by sales. (He is the subject of a recent documentary film currently doing the film festival rounds, which explores the elusiveness of fame and his struggles with the creative process.)
Whether or not the title of his latest LP will mark a change in his fortunes is hard to say. But quality-wise, this is up there with his best work to date. A truly gorgeous collection of mid-tempo guitar and piano-based songs with elegant melodies and memorable choruses, there isn’t a duff track here. If there is a subtle change in his approach, it’s in the lack of over-bearing melancholy that pervaded much of his earlier work.
Highlights include country-rock flavoured ‘The Reason Why’, the gentle ballad ‘Miracles’ and the title track, which faintly recalls Bruce Hornsby’s ‘80s hit, ‘The Way It Is’. Elsewhere, ‘No Help At All’ sounds tailor-made for Sexsmith’s fellow compatriot, Michel Bublé, while ‘Love Shines’ finds him in blissful, romantic mode.
Spread the word: Ron Sexsmith has finally found happiness!