We Speak Music
Loic J. Tuckey Delivers Masterful Debut Album
Loic J. Tuckey’s artistic odyssey is resonating with new fervour as his debut album, Beyond The Sun Road, and his novella, Cowboy Butchers, capture the rugged, untamed essence of the American West. This multi-talented artist melds diverse genres—including Americana, alternative rock, blues, folk, and ambient lounge jazz—into a mesmerizing 12-track album that harks back to the golden age of American road trips. Tuckey’s evocative guitar work and versatile vocals, ranging from bluesy grit to gentle melodies, create a rich auditory landscape that bridges mid-20th century rock, surf, swampy blues, and psychedelia.
The album’s creation was a deeply immersive experience for Tuckey, who crafted much of the music and lyrics during real-life road trips across America. The titular track, “Beyond The Sun Road,” embodies this journey with its driving drums and gritty guitar lines, mirroring the endless road and the fleeting moments captured in Tuckey’s lyrics. His songwriting reflects vivid scenes and emotions collected from the open highways, diners, and motels, making the album not just a musical work but a true testament to the spirit of American exploration.
Recorded at Sheffield’s Hatch Studio with contributions from local talents such as Jim Ghedi and Zebedee Budworth, and mastered at Candyland Studios in Kentucky by Mike Montgomery, the album stands as a polished yet authentic reflection of Tuckey’s artistic vision. The collaborative effort has resulted in a cohesive piece that combines technical skill with genuine expression, encapsulating the essence of Tuckey’s journey across America.
In addition to his musical achievements, Tuckey’s debut novella, Cowboy Butchers, further showcases his versatility and depth as an artist. Drawing from classic Italian westerns and the culinary traditions of the Lincolnshire banger, the novella echoes the rich cultural influences present in his music. With over 15 years of experience in Sheffield’s vibrant music scene, Tuckey’s novel and album together present a powerful narrative and sonic experience that deeply connects with the rugged allure of the American West, making Beyond The Sun Road a compelling and innovative debut in both literature and music.
Etherdene’s ‘Forsaker’ is a revelation in both sound and sentiment. The track marks a new chapter in her career, blending the vulnerability of heartbreak with the resilience of moving on, all wrapped in an electrifying package of synth-pop and indie-pop. The result is a song that is both deeply personal and universally relatable, a cathartic journey that encourages listeners to let go and rise above their challenges.
At the heart of ‘Forsaker’ is Etherdene’s exploration of emotional struggle and the painful yet liberating act of letting go. Drawing from her own experiences with the end of a professional partnership, Etherdene’s lyrics are a raw and powerful expression of inner conflict. The line, “Brand new member in the club of quitters, the uniform compliments my eyes,” encapsulates the complex emotions of giving up, flipping the narrative on its head to reveal the strength in choosing to walk away.
‘Forsaker’ is a triumph. Etherdene’s decision to incorporate synth bass arps brings an air of 80s nostalgia while keeping the track fresh and forward-thinking. The electric guitar work from Cory Clark adds a layer of dynamism to the song, complementing its mood perfectly. However, it’s the drums – played by Warren van Wyk – that truly elevate the track, infusing it with energy and warmth that feels almost magical.
What sets ‘Forsaker’ apart is its empowering message. Etherdene isn’t merely recounting a painful experience; she’s showing us the strength that comes from letting go of something that no longer serves you. It’s a message of courage and self-love, encouraging listeners to prioritize their emotional well-being over the fear of walking away from something that seems promising but ultimately isn’t right.
‘Forsaker’ is yet another example of Etherdene’s impressive versatility as an artist. From her early days in the Afrikaans band Kaktus to her current solo career, she has continually pushed the boundaries of what indie-pop can be. With ‘Forsaker’, she’s taken an emotional experience and turned it into a musical triumph that’s as empowering as it is catchy. This track is bound to resonate with anyone who’s ever had to make the difficult decision to walk away – and Etherdene’s ability to capture that moment in song is nothing short of remarkable.
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