Chris Townsend CD Review

Chris Townsend
Copenhagen
Folly Records Ltd. 5065001203008
*****
Music for a sunny Sunday afternoon
Hailing from Bristol singer/songwriter Chris Townsend is certainly a name to remember. Having supported The Feeling on tour he has performed in many UK venues. This is his first full length album produced by Greg Haver, who has worked with the likes of The Manic Street Preachers. Chris is reminiscent in style of the popular country infused group The Jayhawks. The album contains ten tracks, all of which sound great and are worthy of a place on the album. Chris is heavily influenced by the music of The Beatles, Ryan Adams, Jason Mraz and Jack Johnson. All I Can Say is a gentle number with heartfelt lyrics. It has a magical sound about it. You know you are listening to something special as soon as Chris starts to sing. His vocals are raspy and infectious. Radio is one of those numbers you want to play on a sunny Sunday afternoon whilst you are lazing in the park. At the start of the track the listener will be reminded of John Lennon as their vocals sound very similar, but as the number progresses there is more of a touch of Crowded House. Hardest Summer is a much faster track with heavier backing. Here there are reminders of REM or Jason Mraz. A catchy number that you will find yourself wanting to put on repeat play. Stay Positive has a lovely piano introduction; this is a slow, emotive number. I can imagine Elton John sat at his piano performing this gentle track. Back Again (So Damn Smart) is another faster track with echoes of Paul McCartney running through it. The title track Copenhagen is a haunting number rich in atmospherics. Here Chris sounds ghostly and chilling but in a good way. Chris spent six months living in Copenhagen, hence the title of the number and album. A very fitting title track as it sounds divine! Direction sees Chris move up a gear. This is a fast rocky number with a blues infused sound. This is an amazing track that although thoroughly modern has something of an old-fashioned twist. Listening to this number the music of Ryan Adams or The Who comes to mind. This is a blistering debut album that ticks all the right boxes. Chris is a really big star in the making.