Hypnotizing acoustic arrangements and sophisticated songwriting prowess make for a delightful offering from NY’s William Lawrence (9.6)
Rarely does a record reach powerful heights and brutal, heart wrenching lows the way “Slow Dancing On A High Wire” does. Through the maddening agony, Will Lawrence manages to produce listenable and beautiful music the way only he can.
The title “Slow Dancing On A High Wire” appropriately characterizes the ambivalence, abandon and risk that Lawrence takes in his songwriting. Appropriately, many of the songs are slow. But the poetry in the album’s title comes from the fact that these are not dance songs at all. Take for example the eponymous track. Featuring the lush woodwinds of Greg Marino, this track, which was competently produced by Ian McGuire represents the best of what the anguished NY songwriter Lawrence has to offer.
Other standout tracks include the bountiful “Saint Winifred” and the contemplative “Interlude”.” Recalling the best of Sufjan Stevens, the old school storytelling of Cat Stevens and the songwriting prowess of Shy Boyz, “Slow Dancing On A High Wire” is a must listen. It is easily album of the year material and will certainly be making my list.
A