Paul Heaton has had a high profile in the British music scene for 25 years as front-man for The Housemartins and The Beautiful South; the release of ‘Acid Country’ sees him on an independent label, but still covering some classic Heaton subjects in his distinctive melody led songs.
The title track is probably the one song that feels a little outside of what he might have previously put together, but it’s a magnificent song that is full of heartfelt references to the United Kingdom, some good and some bad – it’s certainly a song that will bring a smile to your face, but this is mixed with a little sadness in places about how downtrodden we can be.
The majority of the remaining songs are classic Heaton fare, there are a couple of fantastic duets including ‘This House’ a typical Paul Heaton tale of domestic life, and ‘The Old Radio’ is a classic mix of thoughtful lyrics and killer melodies.
In fact the whole album reinforces why his songwriting has taken his bands to the very top of British music, the lyrics are concise and efficient, the melodies and hooks are faultless, and the overall presentation and musical range is broad and varied – it’s a compelling mix, and ‘Acid Country’ delivers on every front.
Track listing
1 The Old Radio
2 Even a Palm Tree
3 Young Man's Game
4 Welcome to the South
5 Life of a Cat
6 House Party
7 This House
8 Ladder's Bottom Rung
9 Acid Country
10 Cool One in the Fridge
