Late Night Final

This record is worth listening to for a perfect escape from the worries that one makes of the real world. Touring guitarist for the band Pulp and former member of the Longpigs, Sheffield, England's Richard Hawley creates an album brooding with creativity and charm. With dreamy and ethereal instrumental works throughout, Hawley paints the town psychedelic with spirit and fervent passion. From beginning to end, this Bar None release is chock-full of reflective lyrical statements and stunning, pristine guitar and percussive statements. Many of the vocal mixes take the listener from a state of pop/rock hysteria to nightclub righteousness. Hawley's lyrics express themes like precious memories of lost loves, moonlit outings, and humorous daylight excursions. "The Light at the End of the Tunnel," a gem of sorts and the final track, promises to be a tearjerker every time. Hawley's stunning and crafty vocals hardly fail to stir the souls and hearts of the active listener. An alternative rock album with a hint of blues done in a psychedelic setting, Late Night Final is a fine album for an English rocker, a fine journey by a singer/songwriter with budding potential. ~ Shawn M. Haney