Richard Burley - Time Spent Counting Magpies CD Review

Richard Burley - Time Spent Counting Magpies
Alsatia 884502196184
****
A fusion of styles blended together into one great album
Richard Burley has always had a passion for music. Hailing from Bristol Richard’s influences include the songs his grandmother and father used to sing to him and the songs he sang at school in the 50’s and 60’s right through to John Martyn, Johnny Cash, Paul Brady, Bob Dylan and Neil Young. TIME SPENT COUNTING MAGPIES blends many styles of music together to create something wonderful. This album looks at what it means to be alive and how love can make us reflect on our lives. Richard almost gave up on his dream of becoming a musician but in the end his passion for music won through. Counting Magpies opens the album. Instantly James Taylor comes to mind. Richard’s vocals are warming and rich. This song blends modern folk with a kind of Eagles sound. The end result is something listeners will really want to listen to. The Tear follows on in a similar style. Richard’s vocals are evocative and the backing music is interesting and varied throughout. The Winter Gardens sees the music shift up a gear. Richard’s vocals take on a slightly different style but still retain something of a warming glow. Blood Water & Wine has a slight jazz feel to it. Pass It On is a delicious song, which sees Richard again singing in a similar style to that of James Taylor. Sometimes You Just Have To Walk has a real folk feel to it. Gone is a pleasant slow song with gentle backing music. Richard’s voice is magical and the lyrics are so emotive. Everlasting Shame is a rockier number written for Nicki Davey to sing, who as well as having a great voice runs the Wookey Hole Acoustic Club. Your Good Light is a slow song, which sounds divine. Lush vocals really enhance this charming song. Old Bristol Road is a rocky rousing song with a catchy beat. The album ends on a high note with the song This Time It’s Personal. This is another upbeat song, which rounds off the album nicely. All in all a nice mix of songs from this talented UK artist.