Carus Thompson sure knows how to swoon with his gentle guitar guiding his raw, yet honey smooth vocals through realistic and meaningful storytelling. These are the ingredients that yet again shape his latest album release, Shakespeare Avenue.
This time Thompson flew to London to work with Mercury-nominated producer Sean Lakeman, partner Kathryn Roberts and the folk star, Seth Lakeman, to deliver a ten-piece tale touching on political and social affairs including violence against women, historical tellings of Western Australian warrior, Yagan, and a narrative of the life of Dylan Voller, and intertwining personal anecdotes.
Beginning with ‘Ship To Come In’, Thompson exudes warmth with his down-to-earth tone and gorgeous harmonies with Roberts, whilst discussing heavy subjects. The line ‘these are dangerous days to try to make it home’, is a harsh reality but his delivery is so calm it puts listeners at ease. Thompson maintains this approach throughout in an almost Cat Stevens way of discussing the world.
‘Unless We Go Now’ is a standout from the album, with its slow builds and dewy layers of sound from the precious harmonies, the slight tingle of a tambourine, the sweeping strings with its country charm, and the carrying chords of the piano and guitar.
Even with the heavy topics, Shakespeare Avenue is a delightful listen.
3.5/5
MGM
Reviewed By Tammy Walters