Nothing like an artist covering all bases: the press release informs us that blues, roots, African, folk and calypso influences come together on ‘Back of the Line’. Having been born to Scots parents in Zambia and having divided his time between South Africa and the UK over the course of his career, I expect cosmopolitanism is in his blood – and I guess this being his 22nd album, he’s tried everything else already.
The majority of the tracks here straddle country and blues, and the style sits well with his lived-in voice. There’s an easy-going vibe throughout, and tracks like ‘Corrinna’ have the kind of swing that’s you could justifiably call toe-tapping. Time and again, he proves himself to be a nifty guitarist, but never once strays into indulgence, and makes it all sound so effortless and natural.
Robin Auld Online
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