Album Review: Matt Purcell, Silver Man

Inspired in part by ’60s guitar bands, this Australian-born, Dublin-based tunesmith has been carving out an impressive niche for himself. Initially learning his trade with Aussie outfit Mahogany Blaze, he then unleashed a brace of well-received records, aided and abetted by backing band The Blessed Curse. Now, he has “officially” gone solo, with his new LP Silver Man.
An 11-song opus that lovers of Social Distortion, Drive-By Truckers and mid-period Gaslight Anthem will clutch to their hearts, it’s a wonderfully ragged rock record, full of warmth. ‘Carry Me Home’, in particular, is a huge highlight. Telling the tale of Purcell’s trip from Oz to Tipperary (and tipping his cap to the area’s most famous song along the way), it’s an impassioned, unforgettable folk-rocker.
Other highlights, meanwhile, include the Byrds-tinged ‘A Walk Into Town’ and the Beatles-style pop number ‘Graves Of The Leinstermen’. Though it’s a little front-loaded, Silver Man is a strong offering from the Antipodean performer.