Eleven Songs
RACKET MAGAZINE Luka Bloom Eleven Songs Big Sky 7/10
Irish singer/songwriter Luka Bloom personifies much more than just the generic title of his album, “Eleven Songs.” In fact, Bloom’s music has uplifting lyrics and a soothing voice that can garner new and old fans alike. Fellow Irishmen music producer David Odlum collaborates with Bloom in this project and their sensibilities in the studio compliment each other. For instance, the string section in “I Hear Her, like Lorelei,” has a special kick and this incorporation provides texture similar to what a special ingredient would do to a main course meal. Also, it does not hurt that Bloom’s voice is just as rich and sincere as the instruments that accompany him.
For instance, “Sunday” demonstrates a certain softness and excellent vocal control that highlights his range as a singer. The cultural influences are subtle in such songs like, “I’m on Your Side,” with its country-twang and “I Love the World I’m In” mixes in a Latin flavor with its percussion beat. An obvious difference between these two tracks is the appearance of his lilting Irish accent in “I Love the World I’m In.” Count on Bloom to acknowledge his European roots and embrace authenticity as a performer. Along with staying true to himself in front of a microphone, Bloom unapologetically makes bold political statements in the emotionally-charged song, “Fire.” He talks about the war and state of society today.
Progressive and socially-conscious music still lives on and Bloom is part of this movement. The stand-out track, “When Your Love Comes,” holds its ground from start to finish. Clocking in at over six minutes, he manages to keep it simple, but have a striking melody that includes a choir for a dramatic finish. Quite frankly, the Irishmen is the consummate storyteller who plays attention to the smallest detail. For instance, his voice projects with the story’s ambiance.
All in all, the arrangement is so raw and effortless. The work that is put into “Don’t Be Afraid of the Light that Shines on You,” is remarkable because the song reaches out to the inspirational/Christian rock audience because of its positive message. It is a pleasant way to end a project because the song is not limited to just the violins playing and the choir singing in the background- it embodies hope and the right amount of motivation that can encourage so many people. Some might call it soft rock, but really it is aged wisdom from a veteran artist who delivers sincere and relevant music that pulls no strings- except for maybe the ones attached to the hearts of its listeners. –Gail Navarro
Irish Central.com – Feature by Mike Farragher posted on 5/1
Blurt Online – CD review by Lee Zimmerman posted on 3/16.
“Sometimes the title says all - even when it expresses the simplest of sentiments. That said, the banner on Luka Bloom's latest, Eleven Songs, seems to be something of an understatement. Bloom lowers the lights and keeps the mood mellow throughout, but his earnest embrace and gentle gait provide a formidable combination, exploring all manner of personal circumstance and tangled emotional bonds. Opener ‘There is a Time’ ponders the worth of insisting one's right, even when it's at the expense of securing a relationship. ‘I'm On Your Side’ offers a study in affirmation, urging bold new beginnings and a leap into the unknown. ‘Eastbound Train’ plies a similar analogy, its gentle refrain underlying life's uncertainties. Thirty years on and nearly as many albums, Bloom continues to refine his style as he eases ever so seamlessly into the role of tireless troubadour. These Eleven Songs are imbued with passion and purpose, not to mention grace and charm. Standout Tracks: "I'm On Your Side," "Eastbound Train" "Don't Be Afraid of the Light That Shines Within You" blurt-online.com
