Neil Nayar
Pencil Songs
Tuesday 24th of August 2010
Here we have Neil Nayar a focused musician who's new album Pencil Songs is a gentle acoustic delight.
Opening the record is the sweet notes of 'Strange 8' a sparse track with saddened memories. The lyrics to this track add a personal touch creating a delicate substance to the sound.
'Poet's Daughter' has a melodic sound with crisp vocals and a brilliant build up. This is a powerful track full of warmth and tenderness.
'Squash Face' has a light hearted approach however the occasional twang over the melody somewhat ruins the overall sound of the song. 'Land Song' is a song about the Agrarian Renaissance an organisation reconnecting people, land and food. This is a pleasant folk tune with good use of banjo.
5 songs in and we're hit with 'Tesco Song' a Fagin-esque rant about the power that Tesco has over consumers. This song is delivered in a frustrated fashion and doesn't really sit well in between its folk neighbours. This isn't to say this song is bad, in fact it's great to hear a different side to Neil.
'Doors To Shores' is an African inspired track with humanity up for discussion. This track sees a more dominant sound with drums adding to the depth.
'Do You Notice' is an inspirational song about hope and happiness. Like all Neil's songs 'Do You Notice' contains a strong message that provokes a bit of listener thinking.
Titled track and personal favourite 'Pencil Song' has a relaxed French feel to it. This is a simple track with a fluttering romantic centre.
'My Heart Is Like...' is a tragic track of loving someone but not being loved back. There are moments of light heartedness that loosen up this track.
'Boy Without A Name' drifts along smoothly. This is a quiet song stripped back to it's acoustic roots with a charming harmony.
Final song 'Happy 42' ends the album. This song could do with a bigger climax to really end things on a high but sadly it doesn't get there.
Neil Nayar's Pencil Songs is a complex set of personal messages and experiences which make you sit back listen and take notice.
Author: Steve
Label: Big Round Boat
Found in: Record Reviews
Official Rating
We rated this record 3.5 out of 5.