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I first came across the superb musical talent of Paul O’Reilly at the Wexford Songwriters Club, at one of our regular Tuesday night shows in Finnegan’s, South Main Street, Wexford. Paul is a powerfully melodic singer, with a masterful touch on his well-crafted guitar accompaniments. So it was an exiting prospect to be asked to review his album Take A Wish, and this recording certainly didn’t disappoint. From the soulfully plaintive, Ode to See, to the more upbeat Expressions, to the country roots feel of Leave the Key Behind, Paul takes us down a diverse musical road that is paved with expressive lyrics and richly woven accompaniments. Throughout the album, Paul’s words are a prime example of how to express feelings without soppy sentimentality. The opening love song, Be With You, hits the mark without descending into worn-out clichés. There is social comment here too. The Arabs Tent, encompasses the wars in the Middle East and shows off the virtuosity of Richard King (formerly of Threepenny Opera) on lead guitar and dobro. Paul demonstrates the breadth of his scope in The Prom Song, which deals with a down-and-out man and his life. This is a folk song in the Stockton’s Wing mode, with a haunting whistle accompaniment from Padraig Sinnott of Fonn. In fact, in the course of this recording, Paul surrounds himself with other great musicians. Shelly O’Reilly gives outstanding piano performances on Be With You and Goodbye, while Siobhan McCormack adds a beautiful female dimension to the vocals on Leave the Key Behind. M.J. O’Reilly’s harmonica on the heart-rending Bobby’s Tears is subtle and tuneful. Throughout the album, and especially on the title track, Paul’s vocals and harmonies are well polished. Also, his bass and bouzouki playing both give perfect rhythmic depth his well-crafted arrangements. Paul recorded, engineered and mixed these songs at his home and the professional quality of this album is a testimony to this man’s range of talents. Kieran Goss better move over, there is a new kid, and a new voice, on the block.
Ian Barry - Wexford Song Club - 16/07/2004
Rating:  [5 of 5 Stars!] |
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