hurt you anymore” and, perhaps my favourite “don’t die wondering” and “at the end of the world, it’s just you and me” beautifully describe the feelings of making peace with being vulnerable and connected to another person. Concluding Side One is the latest fan favourite “Pony Ride”. A fun rock track that starts with propulsive drums and contains the lyrics “no way I’m leaving this pony ride”, it’s an inviting song about enjoying all of life’s experiences, letting go and enjoying life itself. A powerful and perfect way to close out the first album side. Side Two’s theme of isolation and the continued search for ways to overcome it and feel a genuine connection in this modern era of technology starts off with “White Lies and Alibis”. The lyrics “this hell is not of my making” and “do what you can to survive”, while written about a specific situation, can also be applied to the prisons of society’s enslavement to technology & the expectations to keep up as well as the continued search for our individuality and true identity and the freedom that brings. Another standout track, “Recluse” follows. A delicate melody coupled with descriptive lyrics that discuss the fear of living, because of both the fear of the outside world that the news and media choose to bring into our consciousness as well as the fear of others’ judgments. Lines such as “I dreamt that Jesus had a gun” and “I think Howard Hughes would love to be on the internet” are smart and memorable, providing observant commentary on our current era. “Strangest Friends” celebrates the freedom and relationships found through creativity, while “In The Blood” (co-written in part by Neil’s sons Liam and Elroy) explores the exhilaration of family bonds and remaining connected in spite of the passing of people & time and the knowledge that even our own time here is fleeting. “Lights Of New York” is the gorgeous closing track, featuring a soundscape that expertly captures the overnight atmosphere in NYC and lyrics that find beauty and comfort in the city and its sights. Though “Dizzy Heights” is a departure from Neil’s usual pop straightforwardness and may be more difficult to fully get into, please stay with it. The sometimes hidden melodies and storytelling both draw you in and, in having to give what you are hearing deeper thought, make you a part of the journey. The title track references a treasure map and this album could very much be said to contain buried treasure as it is one that through repeated listens will leave deep and lasting impressions on the listener in some unexpected ways. An album of true depth and quality and a pony ride I truly appreciate taking again and again.
photo by Kimberely Marsden
Steel Notes Magazine | 139