Album Review: Rory Nellis - 'Written & Underlined'

Belfast singer-songwriter Rory Nellis is back with his third studio album, Written & Underlined, following up on his 2017 LP There are Enough Songs in the World. This time around Rory deftly explores the trials of his own musical craft along with the themes of love, political apathy and mental health.

The title track is a punchy, guitar-led insight into Nellis's calling as an artist. Potentially hugely rewarding, but more often a trade full of uncertainty and self-doubt, he ultimately expresses what all of us strive for - "I want to be remembered in time."

Recent single 'Old Town Revelry' is about battling past our regrets and letting go. 'Picture Postcard Sublime' is full of wanderlust. 'Strange Behaviour', which was the initial teaser single last autumn, is the most synth-heavy offering, all centred around getting your feelings out into the open - a constant message that comes through on the album.

'Video Shop' is the first song that I've heard that has managed to bring one of Ireland's '80s VHS rental institutions into the lyrics - "Xtra-Vision." It is a wistful and nostalgic trip with sonic comparisons to Canadian band Blue Rodeo.

Despite its title, 'The Fear' is a hopeful & gentle song about depression and overcoming it. Nellis also touches on the increasingly apathetic attitude of voting on 'Political Animal.' Backing singer throughout the album, Eilis Phillips beautifully duets with Nellis on the stark 'Bumper Sticker.'

Closing tune 'Be The Sea' is the standout track. It is gorgeously rhythmic, soulful and anthemic, singing about our inner strength, beauty & the potential as unique individuals that we all possess. 'Written & Underlined' is a collection of simplistic, honest songwriting that can be both heartfelt & tongue-in-cheek from a solid Irish musician.

Rory will perform in Belfast city centre to help launch the album this Saturday. Here's the other dates you can catch him at over the coming months:

29.01.22 - 2 Royal Avenue, Belfast (3.30pm)
05.02.22 - Ghostlight Sessions, Balor Arts Centre, Ballybofey, Co. Donegal
06.02.22 - Hidden Garden Sessions, Imperial Bar, Bangor, Co. Down
12.06.22 - Kiwi's Brew Bar, Portrush, Co. Antrim
26.02.22 - In Store Gig, Windmill Guitars, Bangor, Co. Down
01.05.22 - McHugh's, Belfast (part of Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival)

Rating: 8/10

Listen: ‘Be The Sea’.

Written and Underlined will be self-released on January 29.