There are times when the phrase "Glasgow singer songwriter" strikes indifference into the heart of a reviewer with so many nights of watching an interminable parade of sensitive boys with half thought out beards singing at the floor causing something akin to post traumatic stress disorder. Then, occasionally, you do get to hear a Glasgow singer songwriter with promise and Paul McLinden is one.
Sure, he does insist on using a mellow monotone even when the his songs need a bit more oomph but such is the way of young men in awe of men now gone like Nick Drake. It is, however, to be noted that Mr McLinden is an effective songwriter and a commercial one at that with "Blue Planet" being both poignant and topical. Similarly, though superficially simplistic, the title track of this mini album shows that he can make a song as big as it needs to be.
If he can better adapt his voice to his own songs, then Paul McLinden should have no difficulty making his mark. In the meantime, his publishing royalties should keep him in Kentucky Fried Chicken.