Kieran Docherty
>> Expectations
The grassroots scene in Glasgow is blossoming at the moment. It seems that anywhere you turn there’s an earnest singer/songwriter letting you know the ins and outs of human relationships, trying their hardest not the let the heart on their sleeve break due to the weight of emotion they experience every day.
The songs on ‘Expectations’ ring with these similar themes; being on the right/wrong side of the tracks, singing out for love, did I miss my chance, etc. etc. Considering that the ultimate love song (God Only Knows, of course) was recorded forty years ago these are things we’ve heard since, time and again.
Opener ‘Expectations’ is firmly bracketed by the output of the Finn brothers. Rousing pre-chorus melodies countered by a minor fall before the verse kicks in again. It is in no way unsuccessful but even a cursory glance at a Crowded House single will overshadow it. ‘The Difference’ is more interesting proposition. With a skipping guitar line and a gentle honky piano sound the song soon reveals a very rewarding chorus with some magic harmonies. In terms of expectations (arf!) this song was a pleasant surprise. ‘Pleasing You’ shows the roots music this album is grounded in and is perhaps the most convincing song here. Subtle and understated with some cello-esque guitar work (or is it harmonium?) and a touch of banjo – it stands out by sitting back. The best track on the album is ‘Fall from Grace’. It’s a well-rounded and fully accomplished tune and it could be single material. Harking to late-period REM it has an epic feel but with close-to-home lyrics.
With a big gig at the ABC2 on the horizon and with having enjoyed some high-ranking support slots already, things could well be looking up for Kieran Docherty.
Kieran Docherty plays ABC2 on June 17th.
>> Russell Moore
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