Bap Kennedy - Let's Start Again

Hard to believe the former Energy Orchard front-man (and brother of Brian) has been in the music game over 30 years (he was once was signed to Terri Hooley’s Good Vibrations label.) Since then, he has collaborated with Van Morrison, Steve Earle and Mark Knopfler and had one of his songs feature in a major Hollywood movie, Serendipity. With a voice not dissimilar to that of Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy, he was an early champion of what is now known as Americana – and remains one of its finest exponents.

His sixth solo album is a reboot of sorts – a return to basics and what he does best. With wife Brenda on bass and backing vocals, it’s one of his strongest collections. The title-track is a yearning country-rock ballad with heartfelt lyrics, close harmonies and some lovely backing, including mandolin and pedal steel guitar. The rollicking ‘Revelation Blues’ raises the pace a tad, while the honky-tonking ‘Things Don’t Change’ features some tasty acoustic guitar-picking. ‘Kings of Mexico’ is mariachi flavored with a melody reminiscent of ‘Guantanamera’. Elsewhere ‘Heart Trouble’ has a Western Swing flavour reminiscent of Lyle Lovett, with tasty piano and backing vocals. Under a soft shuffle, the poignant ‘Songs Of Her Desire’ boasts a Van influence. Excellent stuff.