Full Review

Pete Morton – Economy

One of England’s national treasures of the folk world, Pete Morton originally started as a busker many years ago, and has deservedly taken his uniquely honest songs of real life to stages the world over.

Given the current state of local and world economics, folk leaning songwriters around the world are going to have plenty to sink their teeth into over the coming years, and here Pete Morton tackles them head on with his first set of original songs in over three years.

A great observer of the human condition, he takes an insightful, informed and occasionally wry look at modern life – it’s certainly not all doom and gloom though as the more cutting lyrics are balanced by themes focusing on the softer side of life.

A common theme across all his albums are his rich and friendly vocals, he presents his songs almost in a relaxed, conversational style and this draws the listeners’ attention to the narrative of the lyrics – his songs are often full of lyrical detail and this is a style that serves his songs well.

His warm vocals are backed by a strong group of musicians including Roger Wilson (fiddle), Lisa Banks (melodeon and vocals) and Dawson Smith (bass) to accompany his own acoustic guitar work.

‘Economy’ presents some wonderful warm songs and narratives about situations that everyone will be able to relate to – this is an excellent contemporary folk album for 2011.