Derry’s Paul Casey is another musician upping our expectations of future records, by creating a video for each of the tracks on The Long Road Back. It’s an album comprised of love songs of such conviction, they should see him make further inroads into the UK and Europe during the summer.

Opener ‘St Jeannet’ celebrates Casey’s second home in a coastal village in France, with seductive guitar figures and a Gauloises-tinged melody. ‘Peace Bridge’ is a collaboration written with UK rock legend, and Casey’s longtime compadre, Chris Rea. A provocative song based on two guys from opposing sides meeting on a bridge, it carries a message of peace that reaches across all divides.

‘In The Arms Of My Love’ features tasteful harmonies, with Alexander Korukovetz’s accordion to the fore . ‘Who We Are’ is another response to turmoil, which sees Casey rev up his guitar for a speedy romp reflecting the urgency of our predicament.

Inspiration for Casey’s video-album goes back to 2020, when the singer delivered his take on Van Morrison’s ‘In The Days Before Rock’n’Roll’ for Hot Press’ Rave On, Van Morrison! project.

With top musicians such as Liam Bradley on drums and John McCullough on keyboards, the album’s warmth and tenderness serve as an antidote to the hate-fuelled mood of the world as we see it today.

8/10