"I'm not getting old just perfectly damaged" sings Rory Ellis in the title track to this, his fifth studio album and that's as good a summation of the songs presented herein. After all, he's been around a bit and knows just how to express those bones-a-creakin' sentiments of a man who has seen the sun set one too many times.
Gruff of voice, he sings in a matter of fact way that is entirely appropriate to his world weary words. It is perhaps no surprise then that there is even an ode to a car – "Pontiac" – that reflects on better times. However, mainstream Americana remains the prevalent theme here with the dry "Not Much" being a near perfect example of the blue collar Nashville style even if "PC Love" does sit somewhat awkwardly next to it reflecting as it does on the current trends in romance. Similarly, "The Gift" – a song about a drugs bust, just doesn't seem to fit in at all but all is surely forgiven with the closing song "Flesh and Bone" that bears comparison with Neil Diamond's late period output.
When it comes down to it, "Perfectly Damaged" is an amiable album and one that more than a few people might want to get old with.