Nicky Swann CD Review

Classy country –emotional and heartfelt
Influenced by Carole King, Janis Joplin and Paul Weller, Devon born singer/songwriter Nicky Swann is a devoted performer who blends together folk, country and blues to create poignant songs about a range of emotions. Nicky has supported many top acts including Corrine West and Megson and is a regular performer at the Dartmouth Music Festival. Nicky’s new album features eleven original songs, one cover and a new arrangement of a Welsh poem All Through The Night. The album was recorded in Cornwall and features Bethany Porter on cello and steel player Alan Cook. The songs on this album have a particular theme – love and death, hence the title MATCHES AND DISPATCHES. The album gets off to an amazing start with the classy song Little Bird. Nicky has a very traditional sound and style; this is echoed in the range of instruments used to accompany Nicky’s vocals. Hold On has a slight jazz/blues feel. This is an up-tempo song with a delightful summery vibe. Crash And Burn is a rocky country/pop song in the style of KT Tunstall. Nicky’s vocals seem to suit all kinds of musical styles as this album demonstrates perfectly. Long Time is a gentle slow song. Angelic vocals, limited backing and carefully crafted lyrics make this song sound magical. You Got Me Boy sees Nicky joined by Rick Foot on double bass and Bethany Porter on the cello. This song drifts along nicely. A lovely blend of country/pop. I Wanna Hold Your Hand is a terrific cover of The Beatles classic song. Nicky turns a once up-tempo lively sing-a-long song into a dreamy country/folk song completely different from the original. Tuesday’s Lament is a slow song with emotive lyrics. A sad song sung brilliantly. Everything is a slow pop infused song. Amy’s Waltz is a classic country/folk song featuring Olivia Dunn on violin. Striking and evocative, this is a truly wondrous song. One Step Up is a rousing country song with a catchy beat whilst In Too Deep is a glorious slow country song. Wheels Keep Turning has a touch of Mary Chapin Carpenter about it. A lovely slow country song, which again features Olivia Dunn on violin. Every so often upon listening to Nicky’s varied vocal range Rosanne Cash comes to mind. All Through The Night really allows Nicky’s vocals to shine. It is a slow moving song, which once again has a strong country feel. This album is really classy and jam packed full of sublime songs. A must for all music fans!