Sovereign – Chris Murphy (reviewed by Dave Franklin)

The last time I had Chris Murphy under my pen it was to discuss the understated, cinematic and ambient creations of Seven Crows. This time out it is for a return to his more signature sound…if someone as creative as Chris could even be said to have a signature sound.

Sovereign sees him back in the world of folk fusions, Americana grooves and countryfied cool, where acoustic guitars glide, fiddles fly, electric licks add tone and texture and vocal harmonies are found front and centre.

Bad Situation is the coolest country-rock groover, Done With Diane runs on an old-time music hall vibe and Three Feet Deep is a gorgeous blend of ragged blues and vibrant violins. And of course, there is also the opening salvo and single Halfway Around The World, a brilliantly buoyant sonic slice, so great that it demands its own review….which you can find here.