TONY LOW – ARTIST SPOTLIGHT & EP REVIEW – REALLY REAL
By Ralph Beauchamp
We last featured Tony Low in 2020 when he dropped his 2019 album, To New York. With the full length, Low created a singer/songwriter tour de force with audacious arrangements, poignant lyrics and truly edgy compositions. Low is back again with a new six track EP entitled Really Real. Tony‘s songwriting on the EP proves that a few years can make a difference. His songs are more mature and the orchestration has masterfully evolved to another level. Really Real delivers six brazen songs full of dynamic synergy and vibrant soundscapes.
In our last feature on Low, I explained our connection. Tony was the amazing bassist and occasional vocalist of a band I once managed. The Cheepskates were part of the 80’s garage revival scene which also featured such illustrious artists as The Fuzztones and The Chesterfield Kings. Just recently, I became aware that The Chesterfield Kings are currently out and about as we speak. It’s great to have them back as they and The Cheepskates have influenced many a current artist. That entire eclectic musical community was rich with memorable and exuberant music. It was an honor and pleasure to be associated with such a bold group of musicians.
On the record, besides lead vocals, Low played quite a few of the instruments himself including the bass and 6 and 12 string guitars. Doug Davis did backing vocals, lead guitar, piano and a multitude of other instruments. Corky McClellan (Drums), Dave Laukaitis (Lead Guitar/Really Real), Nick Stubblefield (Piano/Garden of Shambles), Jennifer Alexander Johnson (Cello), Corine Brouwer (Violin) and Anand Gan (Percussions) also contributed. it was produced by Low and Davis (Flytrap Productions) with Davis handling engineering and mixing.
Really Real starts off with “Big Warm”. The song is somewhat melancholy but the musical flourishes are intriguing. The organic piano and acoustic guitar fits well with Low’s earnest vocals and interesting electric guitar fills. There is a lot going on through out the track. To fully appreciate the musical complexities, you have to give it a couple of listens. Then you can absolutely fathom the depth of Low‘s sublime songwriting.
“Really Real” is up next and Low does something quite unique. He mixes psychedelic vibes using fuzzy guitars while combining a cool countrified groove with a doo-wop rhythmic background. The song mashes them all together in order to create something authentic and singular. Plus the lyrics are poignant and somewhat biting. Low doesn’t pull any punches.
“Garden of Shambles” is a beautiful ballad with lush strings and a divine piano overlay. Tony‘s voice is warm and full of emotive textures. His plea to reunite with a lost love is totally heartfelt. Everything is soft and introspective. “Rapture On The No. 7” carries a caribbean feel with lovely percussion intonations. The tune is imaginative considerably romantic. Low transports you to far away exotic locations with his cinematic vocals.
“Smokeflower” is whimsical and harmonically enchanting. The organ fills are dreamy and again, the arrangement is superb. Once more, the strings takes the track to a heavenly arena. Low‘s strong songwriting is definity in the forefront. “Sapien” closes out Really Real. It is the perfect ending to an exuberant release with every musical element falling genuinely into place.
Really Real is a new high for Tony Low. Each new release exposes another facet of his brilliant songwriting and intrepid musicianship.
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