Re: What song are you listening to right now?
Ariel Posen - Reasons Why (2023)
One of my favourite artists of recent years, so didn't want to rush into this before savouring it for a few days. I know it was only last week I went to see his show in Ashington, but the "2023" is because the album came out last September, but we didn't have a slot for that tour.
Well first off, this didn't sit with me as immediately as the previous album, Headway, but, it does creep up after a few listens. Ariel's stock-in-trade is songs of love gone wrong, forgiving, making decisions that affects others, toxic people, mending what’s broken, mental health & inner struggles, and few excel, though, well, maybe a few "lighter" moments wouldn't go amiss. Apparently, this albums genesis was back in pandemic days, where I guess a lot of people were undergoing the usual rhythms of inter-personal relationships. "Feel This Way Too,” “Didn’t Say,” “I Wish That We Never Met” and “Man You Raised” - slot together easily. The songs move at a languid pace as Posen’s lyrics contemplate relationship regrets on “I Wish That We Never Met” and “Didn’t Say.” Saying that, “Man You Raised” is more upbeat, with its recurring guitar riff established early as Posen sings of acceptance and hope. All credit though for Posen to push through these themes and not get too mired. Stand out track though, for me has to be "Broken But I'm Fine".
Broken But I'm Fine - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7LeToBVjiCk
However, on the performance side, Ariel’s warm voice while not being wholly blues-based does have lift, urgency. Many would agree that seeing Ariel Posen live is an unforgettable experience. His manipulation of all the elements that go towards creating great electric guitar tone – whether it be in standard tuning or dropped to the depths of his custom baritone – have gained him the respect of both his peers and audiences alike.
Musicians – Julian Bradford (bass), JJ Johnson (drums), Jon Smith (percussion), Marc Arnould (Wurlitzer), Keiran Placatka (keys), Roman Clarke (piano) & Alexa Dirks (bgv).
Time Can Only Tell - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IamEJdMmsCI
I Wish That We Never Met -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRedIo9DuXc
Give back the lemons. Why were the lemons free? What's wrong with the lemons?
Do Not trust the lemons...