This may be one of the sweetest loveliest albums you’ll ever hear. I have listened and loved these gentlemen since their Chucky Danger days. The first time I was fortunate enough to see them live, I don’t think I said a word. I just stood in awe by how wonderfully put together they were. The second time I saw them in a more intimate setting and again I just couldn’t bring myself to speak. Not only are they musically tight with incredibly catchy songs, John MacPhee has one of the loveliest voices I’ve heard. Like one of those voices that makes you swoon, and it comes so naturally. No force whatsoever.
My Friends has always been one of my favourite albums to play when the sun is shining and the weather is warm. It is an album full of charm, and just makes you want to go and make the most of life. Enjoy it and not take things too seriously. It’s full of youthful nostalgia, and playful choruses.
It’s hard for me to pick just a couple of stand outs on this album, as I have listened to it countless times and my favourites always seem to change depending on where I am at in life. Pull Me In has so much energy from start to finish. It’s bright and powerful.
My Friend has a wonderful and consistent groove to it, along with a chorus that makes you want to grab your best buddies after a pint or two, give them a squeeze and sing this to them at the top of your lungs. It is a beautiful anthem to those who are most important to you. It’s so gosh darn likeable!
Little Liar is a perfect example of that youthful nostalgia that this album is filled with, getting up to everything and anything with your friends - playing games and loving the length of the light that summer days bring. It has a modern Beach Boys feel to it with the simple yet addictive drum pattern that brings together the chorus.
Ghostwriters may be one of the most gorgeous songs I have ever heard. The silence behind John’s voice during the verse which is met by beautiful ahhhs that are full of stunning harmonies. . . it just gives me chills. The song makes me feel as though I am floating.
A lot of this album is simple. But sometimes, that’s all an album needs to be. It will always be one of my favourites and will remain close to my heart!
Paper Lions - My Friends (2012, LP, Transparent Orange)
