Andy White - Songwriter

by Lisa Torem

published: 10 / 9 / 2009

Label: Floating World Records
Format: CD

Musically ambitious, but flawed tenth album from multi-talented Belfast-born, but Melbourne-based singer-songwriter Andy White

Review

Belfast-born, but Melbourne-based singer-songwriter Andy White’s self-titled debut utilizes his many skills. He produced it and plays aubergine, harmonica and bass besides his sturdy six-string. But ambitious as he is instrumentally and capable production wise, his lyrics fall a little flat. White’s heart is in the right place. He knows about Valentine’s Day, candy and flowers – but that’s the easy stuff. For example, in his tune, 'Turn Up the Temperature on The Machine of Love', he depends too much on cliché. “There goes that love of mine, there goes my baby, we had the summertime and it makes me wonder why.” White speaks in universal phrases, but skimps on the details that create a story line. The chorus, “turn up the temperature on the machine of love” doesn’t raise the barometric pressure and White doesn’t seem to sweat it out. In 'The Valley of My Heart' he muses about Valentine’s Day and vollies phrases such as, “somebody always get hurts” and “you’re lucky to get out alive” but there’s little substance that oozes below the valley’s circumference. In 'Twelve String Man' there’s a clever attempt to compare a twelve-string guitar player to those with lesser strings. 'Kathleen' was co-written by Allison Russell, and moves along like a steam locomotive – lively and bouncy – extending a nod to Zydeco. 'Candlestick Park' has a mellow feel though a bit over-produced, and is probably the most memorable of the collection. 'First and Discovery' has the elements of an evocative ballad and features Allison Russell on vocals. 'Start All Over Again' has a driving rhythm and uses harmonica tactfully. 'Faithful Heart' transitions smoothly into a bridge and back, but I’d like to hear more dynamic range from White himself. Still, it’s a stylish tune. 'When I Come Back' explores dreams – such as meeting the Beatles or strolling around Notre Dame. A simple harmonica solo decorates the slim progression. 'Now It’s Over' has some unexpected musical tension resolving into a catchy refrain. It has a hearty “we are the world” enthusiasm carried through with 60s type guitar and piano riffs. White has created a viable party release using a range of musicians and instruments including tambourine, pedal steel, mandolin and accordion. With a more serious concentration on lyricism, he could keep the party going all night long.

Track Listing:-

1 The Valley of My Heart
2 If You Want It
3 I Believe
4 Turn up the Temperature on the Machine of Love
5 Candlestick Park
6 When You Gonna Come
7 First and Discovery
8 Start All over Again
9 Why Don't You Stay
10 Faithful Heart
11 Kathleen
12 When I Come Back
13 Now It's Over
14 Twelve String Man