Bap Kennedy Bids a Fitting Farewell

The passing of singer/songwriter Bap Kennedy late last year was a tragic loss, not only due to his exception skills, but also because a fuller appreciation of his talents was only beginning to blossom on this side of the Atlantic. Kennedy, who first made his name at the helm of Irish rock band Energy Orchard, was part of the advance guard when it came to Britain’s commitment to Americana, and every one of his individual efforts mined that intent through his singular point of view. Like the late Ronnie Lane, Kennedy hewed to a laid back style, one that took its inspiration from vintage country, rock and rockabilly. As evidenced here, his was an easy, breezy approach  that was unassumingly straight forward, absent of flourishes or mixed messages of any kind. Indeed, while Kennedy was likely aware of the dooming effects of his illness, there’s no trace of dread in his upbeat attitude.

Consequently, Reckless Heart serves as serene send-off, a nod to the music that inspired him early on. It’s also a tribute to the effortless expression that’s always been at the very core of rock ‘n’ roll’s signature sound. Whether it’s through the steady ramble and pointed sentiment expressed in “Nothing Can Stand in the Way of Love,” the smooth sashay of “Good As Gold,” or the classic honky tonk that underscores “Help Me Roll It” and “Honky Tonk Baby,” Kennedy is completely on point, never allowing remorse to get in his way. Indeed, on the one song that expresses regret over failed romance — the touching ballad “I Should Have Said” — there’s no trace of barbs or bitterness, simply heartfelt humility instead.

Ultimately, Restless Heart is a fine record to remember Kennedy by, one that opts for a simple stance and the sheer joy of musical celebration. We should all be so lucky as to leave such a lofty legacy.