I was delighted when The Panoramic View by Mark Harrison dropped into my inbox. Despite my love of all things rock, rootsy/folk/blues singer songwriter Mark Harrison really is one of my guilty musical pleasures.
Over recent years I have watched Mark’s career go from strength to strength as he winds his way along a steady path to becoming one of this country’s musical treasures. With his unique quirky panache Mark is winning hearts with every show and every new album.
The Panoramic View, due to be released on 7th September, introduces us to fifteen new original songs…..I almost hesitate to call these tracks songs. Musical stories is a more accurate description. An extra element of eccentricity is added to this record thanks to the narration of each track’s introduction by Gail Porter. A nice idea but after a few songs it did grate on me a little (sorry, Mark)
This album tells tales that are part present day social history, part blues appreciation class and part mid-western 1850’s US history lessons. It’s easy to share Mark’s love of the blues through his lyrics. His skilfully crafted lyrics bring these stories to life as much as the music does.Each track covers a diverse theme; each track is subtly musically diverse. There’s even a rag time instrumental homage to the main bus station in Coventry!
The Panoramic View brims over with talented musicianship from Mark and the guests who share the space with him. Whether he’s playing his National (I have a real soft spot for those) or his 12-string acoustic, Mark’s prowess as a guitarist shines through on each of the fifteen tracks. He is ably accompanied as ever by Charles Benfold on double bass. The are joined by various highly skilled musicians including Ed Hopwood on harmonica and Paddy Milner on piano.
I’m not going to go through this album track by track for the simple reason that I don’t want to spoil the stories for you. I struggled to pick out a highlight track. Without a word of a lie, they are all great songs. For it’s song title alone, Don’t Die Till You’re Dead stands out a little prouder than some as does John The Chinaman. Love the harmonica on that one and the story behind the song.
Mark himself has declared this record to be his “magnum opus.” He might just be right. This album oozes charm, talent and a refreshing level of confidence.
Don’t believe me? Then check it out for yourself.
10/10
Copies of The Panoramic View can be purchased via the link below.
http://www.markharrisonrootsmusic.com/shop.php
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