Album Review: John Blek, The Midnight Ache

John Blek’s last album, Cheer Up, saw the Cork-based songwriter courageously displaying his vulnerability, at times overwhelmed by the struggles of daily life. There’s more of that gritty honesty on his 10th album. Making it all the more impactful, Blek wraps his downbeat feelings in a cosy, folk-rock setting, with very pleasing harmonies and deft production.

Most of the tracks stick within that formula, to the point where one suspects that, musically, Blek is in danger of underselling himself. ‘Better’ glides effortlessly along, and ‘Before You’ offers hope of personal redemption through finding a soulmate. ‘Mr Misery’ does what it says in the title, while ‘747’ is attractive enough to merit repeat plays.

Instrumental track ‘Indistinct Chatter’ captures the loneliness of the long-distance musician, as Blek competes against a backdrop of indifferent talking voices. Virtually all musicians have been there at some point, some more than others. Album closer ‘Heart-Shaped’, meanwhile, is more upbeat, pointing towards a brighter future.

Blek is to be congratulated for facing his demons, even if he may need a more raucous style to fully realise his potential. In the meantime, The Midnight Ache deserves our attention.

7/10