When I first listened to this album I couldn’t help but notice the wonderful use of many different instruments, Paul plays stand up bass and is accompanied by his amazing band consisting of four very talented musicians: Trevor Smith, Jake Rodriguez, Barkley McKay and J.C Grimshaw. The songs have enchanting combinations of Paul’s low, melodic and soothing voice and piano, guitar, drums, harmonica and almost any other instrument you could think of. The versatility of the band allows for diversity in the songs, some being slow and eerie, such as the song “Beauty Lies” while others, like “Give Me Your Wings” are very hard and fast.
The album’s title track “Evermine” is also the fist track of the album, from the first sound of the piano then combined with the stand up bass it had caught my attention. A very melodic, slightly loungey sound is what I first noticed; it is a very relaxing song that sent shivers up my spine from how beautiful it sounded. However, the lyrics are what really made this song stick out as something astounding. With his amazingly soothing voice almost in a whisper, he sings about male possessiveness in a very graphic and sinister way. I though that this was a great song that combined beautiful music with interesting and unexpected lyrics.
“Evermine reprise”, which come later in the album is an instrumental version of the song, played mostly on harmonica accompanied by the piano and guitar, this later version is just as wonderful and spine tingling as the first.
“Give Me Your Wings” is much faster and darker sounding then the majority of songs on this album, however it is still a fantastic representation of the talent that this band has. With very quick piano and drums, as well as wonderful classic inspired guitar it makes for a wonderful piece of music. Paul matches his voice to this sound by being louder and more husk then his usual soft tone. This song stands out amongst the others as being different but still equally fantastic.
Paul Armfield also chose in this record to show his influences by doing a number of covers, including Tim Hardens “Misty Roses” and his self-translated version of Brel’s “Pourquoi Faut-Il Que Les Hommes S’Ennuinent?”. Both of these covers are great tributes to the original musicians. I am rather partial to “Misty Roses” with its smooth, slightly jazzy sound and the enthusiasm in Paul’s voice when he sings it.
This album is incredibly well done, with songs that are consistently well executed. Paul manages to sing about many different topics yet still have the album flow smoothly. The sound throughout the entire album is very grown up and enjoyable, it made me want to slow dance and sip martinis and share the wonderful music that Paul Armfield and the Four Good Reasons are making.
