Written against the backdrop of the CoronaVirus catastrophe, ‘Nearly Life’ is the latest album to come from Neil Armstrong. Teaming up with lyricist David Will Mitchell and the legendary Jose Maria Sagrista (Triana), the album was initially sparked in January of this year and finished within six months despite recording grinding to a halt mid-way through due to Spain’s lockdown measures. Scottish born multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter Neil Armstrong has recently welcomed music back into his life. With two albums and a rock musical already to his name, he now lives in Spain with his family. ‘Nearly Life’ is the debut of Neil’s creative partnership with British lyricist David Will Mitchell. 

‘Nearly Life’ is a thoughtful, emotive album as Neil Armstrong spreads his passionate heartwarming musicianship over moving pop rock tunes. Using his warm vocals Armstrong floods each track with tenderness while sharp country-esque guitar, pines and laments through subtle keys, harmonica moments and steady rhythmic flows. Through tracks like ‘Paradise Lost’, ‘Rhythm Of Destiny’ and ‘Rock Me Sweet’ Armstrong displays themes of descent and redemption; falling from grace, financial loss, physical falls, societal descents and environmental decline to name a few. Taking inspiration from poet W.B. Yeats, author Gabriel Garcia Marquez, and from pivotal societal moments such as the Covid pandemic, the 9/11 tragedy and climate change, at its core the songs touch on thought provoking issues and display emotive moments through elegant arrangements. Each song brings a new aspect and blended genre to the album to delight listeners ears for example ‘Nearly Life’ is a theatrical piano led number filled with subtle jazz elements while ‘The Gambler’ smudges some steamy blues on top. 

‘Nearly Life’ is a rich collection of tracks that create an easy listening experience while dealing with strong themes expressed through wonderful musicianship and sweet melodies.

Stream ‘Nearly Life’ below

Author : Danu