If you've not yet heard of this fantastic folk singer, then where on Earth have you been? Will Varley - in my opinion - is one of the best singer-song writers there is and since breaking onto the scene he has collaborated with many artists including touring with Frank Turner and Beans on Toast and has had great reaction from the music world with the likes of Billy Bragg praising him. His masterpiece 'King for a King', a song on his debut album, can only be described as one of the most eye opening songs he has produced to date. The song walks you through life and talks about how we all fall into societies trap of growing up in the same way and how we all have such big ambitions but usually end up in the same place - yes, not the happiest of thoughts but lyrical genius. It is as insightful as it is depressing but equally it is a very, very impressive song that somehow inspires you to make more of your own life. Since his debut album Varley has continued to make fantastic music with brilliantly witty lyrics and has now released his fifth album. I think that's enough of me rambling on about my love of Will Varley, so how about the new album? In early February he released his new album named 'Spirit of Minnie'. His lyrics maintain their perception and intelligence but have left behind his often some-what politically fuelled lines but his words continue to open up our minds. Let's not forget his impressive musical talent to accompany his lyrics. With this album he has moved away from the stripped back acoustic guitar and brought along a live band. The outcome has been unexpectedly pleasant, though mainly slow and steady sounding it is another great album and it is great to see his progression and development as an artist as he continues to make and explore new music. The album takes a subdued start with 'All Those Stars', the introduction of a wider range of instrumentation has added a new dimension to Varley's music, sounding more complex and quite different to the folk sound we have become familiar with. 'Screenplay' is one of my favourite tracks on the album, and is more like his previous songs returning to the acoustic guitar but accompanied by a sprinkle of violin and piano which again really add to the song. I would describe the album as a whole as relaxing but downbeat and rather dark. As aforementioned he has taken a step back from his political words and is moving towards a darker tone but continuing to sing about the limitations of life. This darker theme is clearly present in the final track 'Insect' which talks about how we begin buzzing with energy, and have a sense of endless possibilities and how "we were born to wonder why" but as we grow up we "learn how to stop asking questions" and are hit by the reality of life, the loss and the pain it brings. One interesting lyric especially gripped my attention "My parents made me out of alcohol and boredom. I provided purpose a distraction for them." There is a definite ominous feel to the album. This track extends for over six minutes and is a musical exploration which makes you feel like you're stumbling high through a jungle through its peculiar sounds erupting from the background.
Gone are the hilariously funny political lyrics and endearing wit of tracks like 'I Got This Email' and in place are more serious, reflective, sentimental songs which maybe are not quite the Will Varley we know and love but none-the-less a fascinating album and an interesting progression to introduce the extra instruments. Overall a very musically strong album, different from what was expected, but certainly an album deserving of a listen. If you haven't checked him out yet then what are you waiting for? Get listening!
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