Album, Single and EP Reviews


 

 

  The Palace at The Top of the Mountain by Martin Livingstone


The Palace at The Top of the Mountain cover art

Artist: Martin Livingstone
Title: The Palace at The Top of the Mountain
Catalogue Number: No catalogue number
Review Format: CD
Release Year: 2010



It certainly appears that Martin Livingstone is prolific as it seems but a few weeks since something by him passed through the doors here at Bluesbunny Towers. In fact, his first solo release "A Million Miles From Nowhere" even managed to make a good impression.

So what of the follow up? Fortunately, there's no trace of that difficult second album syndrome but the feel of these five tracks is somewhat different this time around. For example, there is an almost spiritual element to the lyrics of these songs, especially in "There Now For The Talking". Elements of Scottish rock history creep in too with hints of peak period Simple Minds and a bit of Big Country being used to season "Find Your Faith". On "Listen To The Wind" Mr Livingstone shows an economy in words but still manages to express emotions clearly and, with understated harmonies to support his voice, he puts across his message in a way that will appeal to many.

It is clear that Martin Livingstone is a songwriter of not inconsiderable talent and, while his presentation is sometimes too restrained, the end result is a mature, well performed set of songs that actually satisfy.


www.myspace.com/martinlivi
Reviewer:
Review Date: February 19 2010