Singer/songwriters are not in short supply in Glasgow these days. Jim Byrne is one such performer and is well known to the Bluesbunny from the many times we have seen him perform at bars and clubs throughout that fine city, both solo and with the band Loris.
This is his debut album and it is probably the mellowest and most sentimental album I've heard in a while. Ordinarily, mellow doesn't do it for me but Jim Byrne is not lacking in musical dexterity and has some sensitive musical support to keep the log fire of passion burning. Songs like "The Handle's Broken on My Cup" should have worked out all twee but our Mr Byrne's dry vocals hold it all together. Likewise, "My Weather Girl" shows that he understands the whimsical as well. He even goes a wee bit old time country with "Daddy's Car" and then gets a bonus point for having that Glasgow treasure Vivien Scotson appear on the classy closing track "The Secrets You're Keeping".
A lot better than I had anticipated, this album will be enjoyed by those who appreciate a bit of subtlety. Whilst there is nothing to offend here (a fact not entirely unrelated to the somewhat old fashioned feel of the album), that is not to say that this is a boring album. It actually leaves you feeling all warm and fluffy and it is undeniably easy to listen to. Maybe Jim Byrne has been infused with the spirit of Roger Whittaker but Roger Whittaker did sell a hell of a lot of records. Maybe Jim Byrne will too?