A Grand Statement From Robert Ellis
Rob Dickens
Posted On July 10, 2016
Between Melbourne, San Francisco and Nashville, I have seen Robert Ellis perform a half-dozen times, all since 2013.
Just about every time, it has largely been just him and an acoustic or electric guitar, or occasionally a side-kick or two. He has a distinctive and powerful voice, including an impressive range. His songs are full of images and feelings that are tangible and profound – a consummate singer-songwriter-guitarist.
With this, his eponymous fourth album (via New West Records), he has turned the tables, good and proper.
Listening to this eleven-song set, it’s hard to think of him in the persona I mentioned before – a man and his guitar. This album is so well crafted, so delicately layered and full of complex arrangements, that I am reminded of the great Paul Simon’s material.
That is not to say that the lyrical content is overshadowed – hell no! This is a very personal and reflective statement. Full of melancholy and commentary around the end of Ellis’ marriage. Key tracks for me are the ethereal ‘Amanda Jane’, the strident ‘You’re Not The One’ and the headstrong ‘Elephant’ – “Oh, my heart / It’s torn in two / one half’s on the road and other remains with you.” My favourite, though is the sweeping ‘California’.
Robert Ellis by Robert Ellis is one of treasures of the year.
The record was self-produced by Ellis at Sugar Hill Studios in his hometown of Houston, TX with engineer Steve Christensen (Steve Earle) and mixed by John Agnello (Kurt Vile, Sonic Youth, Dinosaur Jr.)
The new album follows Ellis’ critically acclaimed 2014 release The Lights From The Chemical Plant – read my review.
Robert Ellis Track Listing:
1. Perfect Strangers
2. How I Love You
3. California
4. Amanda Jane
5. Drivin’
6. The High Road
7. Elephant
8. You’re Not The One
9. Screw
10. Couples Skate
11. It’s Not Ok
