Labels: Make That A Take Records
Review by: Norrie Sills
I have been enjoying Billy Liar’s music online for the last couple of years. The fact that I have not seen him live has more to do with me and my life now than his music or the amount he plays around Edinburgh. From what I’m told he is often away touring on his own with just his guitar having the modern day romantic / tragedy minstrel life. Anyway this release sticks with his 100% quality control and fans of his previous material are unlikely to be disappointed here in any way. He understands the power of a catchy tune and delivers them with seeming ease. There has been an upsurge in country, folk and acoustic guitar punk inspired music in Scotland recently, and Billy Liar’s song writing has allowed him to scratch his notch at the top of that off shoot tree. His opening and title track “All I’ve got” has a more country feel to it than what I have heard him do before. A melancholy love song with great lyrics and sweet as strawberry wine harmonies (Well done Stina Marie Claire Tweeddale. On the name and the singing.) Next song, “sleep” has real Scottish indie feel to it, short and sweet. Again nice harmonies and music. The last Song is “Change” is a passionate call for music to be”¦ well more passionate. Again excellent tune and nice lyrics. Only three songs here, Seems to be the Billy Liar way of quality over quantity. If you’ve never heard of Billy Liar, you’ll enjoy it if you like Billy Bragg, Against me and The Clash. Each of these are lazy comparisons but it’s what springs to mind. Excellent production on this as well. Enjoy.