Iain McKinnon has been round for a while as part of "Grassroots" and "Wild Oscar". This 2006 solo release highlights his song writing skills and shows off some new, jazzy touches to his guitar playing.
"Steam Train Beauty" and "Free" are the most effective songs on display here. He does not write happy songs but ones that seem reflective verging on mournful. Sort of Leonard Cohen meets Donnie Munro really. Even the up-tempo "Side Street Lives" won't raise a smile. There is, however, no doubting his sincerity. He writes songs because he wants to. Perhaps he even needs to. It is not the path to commercial success but it is the right road for those of us who like songs that make you think.
There are only 7 songs on the album but it is worthy of the investment. He lets his songs breathe. That's a good thing. Visit his page on MySpace to find out where to get this album.