Album Review by Mark Bayross
Feted by the late great John Peel, and front man for a number of indie guitar bands (and currently Whole Sky Monitor), John Parkes has now released his debut solo album. Packing an acoustic guitar, occasional harmonica and acerbic wit, this is an amusing collection of songs that sit somewhere between Dylan, Billy Bragg and Will Self.
Tales of unrequited love and leaving home, mixed with biting satire and a sense of mild disgust at life in 21st century Britain, this makes for an entertaining 40 minutes, even if it does get a bit samey. Stand out tracks include a hilarious dig at Daily Mail-driven middle England conservatism (TO GO AROUND) and the clever self-referential YOU’VE NEVER HEARD OF ME.
Definitely recommended if you value well-crafted lyrics designed to induce a reaction. Any album that begins with “Hello, you dress like a birthday cake” should give you a clue as to what’s in store.
