First of all, let's get the James Blunt-isms out of the way right now. Yes, vocally David Ford's voice sounds a little bit similar. But that, thankfully, is where the similarities end. David's previous EP's have proven without a doubt that he has a lot more to offer than being just another romantic singer songwriter in the sheeny shiny world of pop music.
For the most part, David tones his angry self down a little bit for his latest release entitled 'Songs For The Road .' This makes the release slightly more accessible than his previous work, but never once does he sacrifice his artistic integrity to be overtly radio friendly. 'Decimate,' for example, has a slight Motown feel. However with lyrics like, "ain't it hard to live on smoke and dreams /when spirit crushers work in teams / to leave you where you are," the lyrics are a touch darker than the jumpy beat would indicate. My favorite moments on the album are when he digs into his inner personal Tom Waits, to craft some sparkling examples of piano fueled, bourbon soaked sentimentality. The title track is a stunning example of this, an articulate lyric that reads like a classic piece of modern day poetry. The album closer, (...And So You Fell) is another new song with a classic feel. You know, the type of song that is filled with so much heartfelt personality, that only a Rod Stewart reworking would be able to successfully ruin it (see: Tom Waits' Downtown Train.) Finally, for those who wait to listen to bonus tracks, you're in for a real treat as David provides the most excellent Smiths cover I've heard in a long while; i.e. a truly emotional rendering of 'There Is A Light That Never Goes Out,' one of my favorite songs of all time. As I mentioned, the album requires the listener to pay close attention so as to avoid comparisons to boring run-of-the-mill pop music flavors of the week. David Ford is NOT one of those, he's just cleverly camouflaged so as to blend in a little bit before he jumps on you with his unique brand of distinctive musical ideals.
David Ford will be at the El Mocambo next Tuesday February 19th, 2008. His one man band looping experience has to be seen to be believed, trust me.
Download: Go To Hell mp3
Myspace: David Ford
Video: State Of The Union live at Sonic Boom Records on youtube.
Above photo was taken by Walid Lodin.
Labels: CD review, david ford, songs for the road
For the third time in only a few short months, UK's David Ford is returning to Toronto, but this time instead of the tiny and dimly lit El Mocambo, he's playing at the far superior and awesomely lit Mod Club. I reviewed his show back in February and his one man band looping machine deal has to be seen to be believed.
