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Edwyn Collins: A Heartfelt Return After Life-Changing Illness

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EDWYN COLLINS: Nation Shall Speak Unto Nation (AED) 

Verdict: Heartfelt return 

Last week, Edwyn Collins announced a series of live shows, stating that these performances mark his final UK concerts ever. He referred to this tour as his ‘farewell tour’, starting with a homecoming concert in Glasgow, followed by stops at venues like Buxton’s Opera House and London’s Royal Festival Hall.

As he concludes his performing years at age 65, this individual is likely to evoke some moving moments. Known for his ’80s band, Orange Juice, which symbolized ‘the sound of young Scotland’, his label Postcard Records’ claim, they achieved a Top Ten hit in 1983 with Rip It Up. His confident 1994 solo single, A Girl Like You, was a worldwide success.

It’s wonderful to see that he’s still with us for such an emotional goodbye. Back in 2005, he endured two strokes and then contracted MRSA which came close to taking his life. His recovery process continues, and unfortunately, he can no longer play the guitar as skillfully as before. However, music has played a crucial role in his healing journey, and not only is there a tour planned, but a new album also serves as proof of his resilience in the face of adversity.

This title, inspired by the BBC World Service motto (“nation shall talk peacefully with nation”), marks his first solo project since 2019’s Badbea – and the fifth since his strokes. It represents a heartwarming comeback as his lyrics transition from sharp to tender, yet his knack for catchy melodies remains unwavering across eleven fresh tracks that traverse various genres including country-rock, folk, and northern soul.

He faces his health problems straight up. The main song, featuring James Walbourne from The Pretenders on guitar, discusses his challenges with speech. In the lyrics, he sings, “I had all the answers when words flowed freely.” He also mentions enjoying a clever retort.

Speaking about Knowledge, once more showcased by Walbourne, he expresses his regained mental faculties using the hymn Amazing Grace as a reference: ‘Knowledge has become my ally, initially absent and now rediscovered.’

The general atmosphere is hopeful. He shares that the melody for his new song is robust, extremely so, as he speaks on Rhythm Is My Own World, hinting at his success in overcoming writer’s block. Furthermore, on Paper Planes, he expresses a sense of renewal, stating, “It appears I’ve been reborn, for I have persevered.

Helmsdale, a picturesque highland fishing village, serves as Edwyn’s current residence (and where he operates his recording studio) alongside his wife Grace. The album, “The Mountains Are My Home,” embraces the delight of rural living. In addition, “The Bridge Hotel” – an ensemble track featuring backup singers Lena Wright and Bianca White – serves as another tribute to the rugged Scottish coastline.

In other songs titled “The Heart Is A Foolish Little Thing” and “Sound As A Pound,” he reminisces about the lively essence of “A Girl Like You.” The first one includes a soulful vibe from the vibraphone, while in the second, he collaborates with co-producer Sean Read on trumpet to emphasize his strength. He confesses that at times the internal pain can be overwhelming, but assures us that he’s coping well, expressing his resilience by saying “But I’m OK… sound as a pound.” It’s reassuring to hear this from him.

 

JASON ISBELL: Foxes In The Snow (Southeastern) 

Verdict: Surprise acoustic detour  

Jason Isbell, renowned for his storytelling skills in American rock, often leverages a team of skillful backup musicians to enrich his sincere narratives and portraits of characters. This method has proven effective for the Alabaman singer-songwriter and his dynamic studio group, The 400 Unit.

His latest album, “Weathervanes” released in 2023, was a remarkable collection of catchy pop songs, lasting about four minutes each. It seamlessly blended elements of southern rock and country music. The band, The 400 Unit, played a significant part much like Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band or Tom Petty’s Heartbreakers. This album earned two Grammy Awards, adding to the four he had previously won, now proudly displayed on his shelf.

His most recent work, titled “Foxes In The Snow,” stands out as unique. Created in only five days at the iconic Electric Lady Studios in New York City, where legends like Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Wonder once worked, it’s a true solo album. This record was produced using an old guitar (a 1940 Martin acoustic), opting for simple folk and blues melodies instead of the grand orchestrations, offering a raw and unadorned sound.

In an intimate atmosphere, the performer seems almost within arm’s reach, enhancing the subtle strength of these carefully composed tunes. Yet, it leaves one pondering what magic a complete band could bring to these songs through their dynamic range.

In Isbell’s music, his upbringing in the Bible Belt region, particularly Tennessee and Alabama, plays a significant role. The song “Ride To Robert’s” unfolds against the warm backdrop of a Tennessee summer, while “Crimson And Clay” carries a wistful longing for his childhood home in Alabama. In his singing, he expresses, “Even if you take everything I possess, just let me keep the memories of my Alabama home.

There’s a subtle undertone of sadness in Isbell’s music since he and his musician wife Amanda Shires parted ways in December 2023. Listening to songs like Gravelweed (‘the love songs carry different meanings today’) or Eileen (‘you try to convince each other you can remain friends, but deep down, you both feel alone’) is a poignant reminder of the sorrow hidden within them.

This album isn’t just about breakups; “Don’t Be Tough” is a critique on bullying, reminiscent of Isbell’s late mentor John Prine. On “Open And Close,” there’s a subtle nod to “Kid Charlemagne,” a 1976 hit by Steely Dan. With the discerning gaze of a rock enthusiast, Isbell bemoans a struggling cover band as they strive to emulate session musician Larry Carlton’s remarkable guitar solo from the Steely Dan song.

Recently, I’ve found myself immersed in the captivating world of cinema. I was fortunate enough to share the screen with Leonardo DiCaprio in Martin Scorsese’s Killers Of The Flower Moon, and I also had the privilege of composing the poignant ballad “Maybe It’s Time” for 2018’s A Star Is Born. This song significantly enhanced Bradley Cooper’s portrayal of a troubled country musician.

However, composing his unique tunes continues to be his specialty. Though he may seem isolated in this place, his lyrics continue to captivate.

Currently, two of Edwyn Collins’ albums are available for purchase. His tour begins at the Theatre Royal, Glasgow, starting on September 27. You can secure your tickets at seetickets.com.

 

Best of the new releases  

JASON ISBELL: Foxes In The Snow (Southeastern)

In a departure from his usual band, The 400 Unit, the Alabama narrator opts for simplified folk and blues tunes instead of expansive arrangements. Recorded in just five days in New York, these intricately constructed acoustic pieces carry a subtle intensity, though a larger band might have provided more depth and contrast. A tranquil Tennessee summer serves as the setting for Ride To Robert’s, while his recent divorce is reflected in Gravelweed (‘the love songs hold different meanings today’) and Eileen.

 

JENNIE: Ruby (Odd Atelier)

Blackpink member Jennie Kim, born in South Korea and raised in New Zealand, will be headlining Wembley Stadium in August. However, apart from her band, she has an independently growing career. Her solo debut is characterized by dance music, experimental pop, and hints of Gwen Stefani’s solo work. On Like Jennie, she confidently states, “You can’t imitate my A.I.,” while collaborating with artists such as Dua Lipa, Childish Gambino, and R&B vocalist Kali Uchis.

 

Gig of the week 

LIVE: TEDDY SWIMS (Wembley Arena) 

Verdict: Soulful spontaneity 

Teddy Swims thrived during the initial performance of his two sold-out concerts in London, eagerly anticipating his largest British tour yet. With a sense of disbelief, the American exclaimed, “Wembley, man!

Over these last 18 months, the bearded soul maestro hailing from Atlanta has skyrocketed in fame, yet remarkably, he remains humble. Dipping into his two-part debut album titled “I’ve Tried Everything But Therapy,” he served up a mesmerizing blend of soulful tunes infused with rock n’ roll grit – all while igniting the stage with an array of pyrotechnics that left me absolutely spellbound.

Initially keeping conversation to a bare minimum, he swiftly transitioned between songs at an astonishing speed, his robust vocals echoing alongside the pounding drums and gritty guitar riffs of a seasoned band that had been honed on the road.

At certain moments, it seemed excessively dramatic or intense. One of the standout singles from last year, Bad Dreams, appeared to lose its grace and sophistication during live performances.

But Swims, 32, showed a subtle side, too.

In a touching tribute, the song “If You Ever Change Your Mind” was devoted to his partner, singer Raiche Wright. Before performing “Some Things I’ll Never Know,” he openly shared that he indeed sought therapeutic help (stating it as “it’s been amazing”).

In a casual and engaging manner: A surprise rendition of Shania Twain’s You’re Still The One was played unexpectedly, like pulling a song from a massive jukebox. This was followed by the emotionally charged ballad Lose Control (the most downloaded track in the UK for 2024), creating a dramatic finish.

Teddy Swims plays Co-op Live, Manchester, on Sunday (ticketmaster.co.uk).

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2025-03-14 05:20

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