Album Review: Sanchez - 'Burgundy'

Now based in South Korea, Armagh man Oisín Magee has shown plenty of promise on his first solo record under the moniker Sanchez.

Kicking off the album is one of the highlights, 'Knock Them Down'. Over about four minutes, Sanchez introduces you to a song reminiscent of Noel Gallagher's solo work. It also features the chord choice and anthemic feeling similar to a lot of naughties arena-rock. It's a good hook to start, sure to connect with any nostalgic listeners.

Other influences on display are early period-Arctic Monkeys. Much like Alex Turner back in 2007, on songs like 'Port Nerth' and 'I Can't Escape', Sanchez employs a similar vocal style. He manages to get more words than usual into one line of an indie-rock song. Either through this osmosis or his own listening habits, some hip-hop was evidently experienced here.

Although there are a few heavier rock songs on the album, such as 'Paranoid' and the climax to 'Feeling', the latter half of the record leans softer. Tracks like 'Short Ballad 2' or The Kooks-indebted 'Little Bird' showcase the diversity of his music, offering up different styles and contrasting emotions.

A great moment on Burgundy is the album's closer, 'Garfield'. It gives you a warm feeling like the end credits to a children's TV show would back in the day, a short and sweet song that bookends the project.

From offerings that could easily soundtrack a Zach Braff-directed rom-com to the more eclectic sounding fare, Sanchez's debut album displays enough spots of talent that we can expect even better work from him in the future.

Rating: 7/10

Key Track: 'Feeling'

Burgundy by Sanchez is out now on all streaming platforms and his Bandcamp.