Thursday, October 29, 2009

That McAlmont & Nyman Sound 

I think my Album Of The Year has just been decided, after playing a certain new release dozens of times since it came through my letter box on Tuesday. I'm not surprised though, as the idea of David McAlmont writing songs to Michael Nyman pieces sounded like the kind of bloody mad but fantastic idea that I would go for. There are a handful of artists who I will buy blindly due them being that good and he has always been on my imaginary list since his first band Thieves fell apart and led to the first lovely solo album back when I was much younger, far less achey and much less happier.

McAlmont & Nyman

A couple of songs are on the official YouTube channel so here they are:

Take the Money and Run is about runaway bank customers Leo Gao and Cara Young who made off with an enormous amount of money that allegedly appeared in their account by accident.



Excuses, Accusations and Charges is also a crime tale, about the trial of Dorothy Fasola, who I had not heard of until I read the blog about this album's inspirations.

Other subjects and highlights include Susan Boyle's experiences with fame on the title track with heartbreaking moments:

I've done what you suggested
And the world has paid attention
To my belief but I'm still alone
So millions think I'm ugly now
But it's the same old story
Until I sing the song and I sense you close

So I've done what you suggested
And the world has paid attention to my belief
But I'm still alone.

City of Turin is another standout shiver-inducing track, about human trafficking :

I wave at cars
To get inside
Just to keep warm
I let him treat me like a wife
If I remember just how I have survived
I can take it in, in a car, in the city of Turin

The serious issues do not make this a depressing listen, not at all. This is an essential album for people who like music with depth and feeling. Buy it. It's that simple!

I wonder who David will do his next project with?
McAlmont & Nyman
Hmm...

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// posted by DanProject76 @ 7:55 PM
Comments:
I love it.

I've bought quite a few albums based on your thoughts, views and recommendations here.

I haven't noticed you mention it, but here's one that might interest you - the St Etienne curated Songs for the Dog & Duck.

Made in Scotland: Something Beautiful

Not yet reviewed though, I've been too busy listening to MN.

ahoj
# posted by Blogger MadeInScotland : 7:02 PM
 
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