Burn On

When you’re Jack L, the onerous task of undertaking an album of cover versions is no big deal. Having initially made his name via that very same method, the Athy tenor here turns his attention from Jacques Brel to Oscar-winning songwriter Randy Newman, to largely successful effect.
Although the sheer volume of songs on offer here (18 tracks) may put listeners unfamiliar with Newman’s originals off, Lukeman’s readings are predominantly a joy to listen to. His takes on the hip-shaking, funky numbers (‘It’s Money That I Love’, ‘Political Science’) are a delight, but unsurprisingly, it’s the big, theatrical tracks that best suit his tremulous baritone. The gorgeous orchestral resonance of ‘I Think It’s Going To Rain Today’ and the majestic, melancholic beauty of ‘In Germany Before the War’ prove particular highlights, while ‘Great Nations of Europe’, recorded in the early hours on a Kerry beach, is equally commanding.
You’re left with no doubt that Lukeman, and his producer Martin Clancy, have treated these classic songs with care and devotion. But while they work – sometimes admirably – there’s the feeling that they’d be infinitely more affecting in a live setting. Above all else, though, Burn On provokes an appreciation of both Newman’s songwriting skill and Lukeman’s tremendous vocal ability – which is the whole point of the exercise, really.