By: William Clark
Simon Townshend has returned to the music world with his new studio release, Looking Out Looking In.
Before I get to talking about the album, I want to make sure it’s clear that Simon is no stranger when it comes to the world of rock.
Simon is the younger brother of Pete Townshend, the lead guitarist of The Who. When he was a mere lad of nine, he was put to work on backing vocals on The Who’s rock opera, Tommy.
And, even though his music stands up on its own, you can’t help seeing the sibling likeness in both their music and their looks.
Since 2002, Simon has been a full-time touring member with The Who. He’s also worked with Pearl Jam, Eric Clapton and others, while pushing out a few solo discs of his own.
Of course, he’s featured on his new album as lead vocalist, but he also pulls out electric and acoustic guitars, and a mandolin.
Backed up by his brother, Ben, on drums and backup vocals, as well as Tony Lowe on lead guitar, bass and piano, Simon’s work blossoms into a solid outing of fine acoustic driven rock, or maybe rock ballads harnessed to a jumbo Gibson.
From the start, you’re immediately hit hard from all directions by bright guitar chords and perfectly executed tempo changes in “Forever And A Day”. Simon’s voice has a bit of Peter Gabriel to it, so there’s a classic vibe going on during most tracks.
“Stay” is an upbeat song with some blues guitar tied to some lush harmonies and a strong backbeat. There are also some slight yet still noticeable similarities between Simon’s new release and those classic tunes he’s accustomed to playing for crowds of Who fans, but it’s evident that Simon’s the real deal and can create his own inimitable style of music.
If you’ve liked Simon’s earlier work, my gut says that you’ll dig this new album. It’s a cut above his other CDs, and offers up some fresh sounding new work that has some grit, but also gifts us with many melodic and harmonious shining moments.
For any classic rock fan looking to hear a new album that’s melodic, edgy and creative, Looking Out Looking In is worth spending some coin on…
Format: Audio CD
Original Release Date: November 6th, 2012
Number of Discs: 1
Label: Eagle Rock Entertainment
Tracks:
1) Forever And A Day
2) Stay
3) Looking Out Looking In
4) She Asked Me
5) Something New
6) There’s A Girl
7) Electric Friend
8) Bed Of Roses
9) Still Love
10) Making Waves
11) Make It
