For a few years Michael Weston King has been one of the most consistent singer/songwriters on the British folk scene, he’s slowly and steadily built a strong reputation as great live performer and released a number of thematically and stylistically varied albums.
This new album sees him tackle protest songs; it may feel as though the protest movement peaked with Seeger, Guthrie and Ramblin’ Jack Elliott, it gave birth to the last 40 years of folk music through Dylan, Ochs, Baez and those who followed. However, there has been a lack of genuine protest songs and singers since the late 80s, and it seems likely that given the current economic and political climate that this is an area that will see more activity in the coming years.
Here, Michael Weston King presents a mixture of existing protest songs and those from his own pen – what is striking is how relevant all the songs feel, even the songs written 80 years ago are strikingly relevant today. It’s testament to King that his own songs stack up well against some of the very finest pieces in the genre, Phil Ochs’ classic ‘Cops of the World’ is as controversial today as it was 40 years ago, and his own ‘Hey Ma, I’m Coming Home’ is a poignant letter home from a soldier subsequently killed in action; it’s an immensely impressive and moving song that resonates in many ways.
His world weary vocals are perfect for these songs, and the variety of instrumental texture on offer ranges from simple acoustic songs through to full band tracks.
This is an exceptional and important collection of protest songs, and if this kick starts a new wave of artists who will comment and reflect on the wider world then it would be no surprise. As it stands, it’s a unique album of songs that were written over a range of 100 years, but they are all as relevant today as when they were originally written.
Track listing
1 In Time
2 I Didn't Raise My Boy To Be A Soldier
3 Life Is Fine
4 Hey Ma, I'm Coming Home
5 Parish of Rope
6 Cops Of The World
7 Sounds of Our Time
8 High Price Blues
9 Is There Anybody Here?
10 In Spain The Dogs Are Too Tired To Bite You
11 I Pity The Poor Immigrant
12 Simple Song Of Freedom
