Ricky Lynch
Can’t Stand Sitting Down
Twelve original songs brewed form traditional elements and with a strong nod to Bob Dylan is what we have here. Story goes that Mr Lynch was sitting on a pile of songs with no great intention to record them, but was encouraged by those hearing the works to do so Having a great Irish/Americana voice is a big help of course, but many of these lyrics are well worth a listen. ‘Just Lies Again’ rails against the wrongs visited upon Native North Americans in the past and still hurting. Every nation stresses its commitment to justice of course, but steering the Indians into line for a supposed national benefit caused suffering never properly atoned for. A parallel with Australian history, of course.
‘Down In Mexico’ has a cracked Hiatt semi-whine and tequila bars are evoked with appropriate instrumentation and a light lilt as Lynch creates a sound-picture of this Mexican township.
Personnel-wise, Johnny Scott plays all manner of stringed instruments and harmonica, to boot ; Nicky Scott contributes double bass and guitaron. It’s recorded at The Thatched Cottage on Cork and Rod’s up in Belfast. Very often you’d think you were listening to Dylan with a more tuneful and pleasant voice, with neat chordal sequences to suit.
I like the unhurried and relentlessly tuneful folksy backing, Lynch’s own guitar sitting in the centre, pacing the tunes. The cover art includes a splendid painting by the artist himself, called ‘The Haunting Nostalgia of Twilight’.
As touching a set of guitar-folk originals as you’ll find anywhere, for when you’re in that frame of mind, the highlight being reflective and poetic closer ‘On A Winter’s Afternoon’
Pete Sargeant www.fairhearing.co.uk
