Description

A founding member of the iconic Britpop band Ocean Colour Scene and guitarist for Paul Weller since 1992, the Solihull native has long been regarded as one of Britains most talented musicians and a part of the countrys musical heritage. The affection and knowledge for his craft amassed over the years are truly tangible on the latest thoughtfully constructed 13-track album.

The record radiates relevant retro as a 21st century ode to Sixties psychedelia. From the get go, dreamy opener Any Way The Wind Blows immerses us in an exploration of sounds in the best of British musical tradition. Steves skilled song writing and expert multi-instrumentalism are evident on tracks such as Sheer Inertia and Travel Wild Travel Free. This record is a true labour of love from a man who clearly knows how to write and use catchy hooks, hip vibes and lush melodies.

: a true return to old fashioned song writing, great, strong melodies with a beautiful vibe in the background. This has much more flare to it. Jack Rowberry

Shindig issue 34: There are traces nay, 10-foot high murals of folk, psychedelia and even reggae on this, his third solo album, wrapped up in a warm, appealing sonic blanket thats stitched together by enormous instrumental diversity and bucketloads of care.