aaamusic | On 25, Mar 2012

At only 24 years old, Luke Leighfield already has 4 albums under his belt. His latest- “New Season” is due for release on the 26^th of March under Got Got Need Records. Leighfield was apparently classically trained- a quality that is noticeable at many points throughout this album, be it through his controlled vocals or through the well structured form of the songs. While “New Season” makes use of many instruments including piano’s, guitars, bass and drums to fill out the singer-songwriter style songs, at times it is minimal in production- allowing Leighfields vocals and the lyrical content to drive the songs.

There are quite a few slow, melancholy tracks on “New Season” such as “Whispering” and “Slow Down” where the piano and Leighfields sombre timbre remind me a little of a more modern Elvis Costello. However there are also many upbeat numbers such as title track “New Season” which is an energetic and uplifting track. The use of cymbals and a vamping piano give this song a victorious, triumphant vibe. “Garde Ta Foy” begins with a beautiful piano melody which serves as a perfect intro to this sad song which describes the process of fate and the importance of self-belief: “Keep your faith brother you are where you are meant to be”. This song also makes reference to the album title when” are you ready for a new season?” is repeated over and over towards the end  of the song which is a nice touch of thematic coherence.

“Live for More” is an album highlight that begins very up-tempo and gradually breaks down over the course of four minutes to a stripped back ending on vocals on piano that is suitably fragile and raw. On this track Leighfield croons:

“It is not easy to break out of the mould/ When it’s got you on your knees”

Overall this could sum up “New Season”. While it hasn’t exactly reinvented the wheel or fused any musical genres- it is a solid, well crafted album with many interesting musical touches throughout.

 

Orna Lyons