Tyketto - 'Closer to the Sun' album review

 

With a clatter of drums and Danny Vaughn’s exclamation of “oh, come on”, ‘Higher Than High’ springs into action, the bouncy riff lending a real sense of optimism to a song that is appropriately uplifting. A splash of harmonica gives a retro flavour, like Zeppelin briefly crashing the party (as if that could ever be a bad thing!), but really the sound remains closer to that of Journey or Foreigner, lifted from a time when rock ruled the radio. ‘Starts with a Feeling’ is even more of an 80s anthem for the modern connoisseur. Vaughn’s flawless vocals are at the heart, and the years have done nothing to diminish his power or emotive delivery. The inevitable key change at the crescendo might not be anything new, but there’s a reason it’s so enduring; some things never lose their magic.   

 

‘Bad for Good’ is a grooving rocker anchored around Chris Childs’ persistent bass throb that concludes with some infectious “nah nah nah nahs” inviting you to sing along. It feels like a natural partner to ‘Hit Me Where It Hurts’, both proving that Tyketto can do attitude as convincingly as they can do emotion. ‘Dunnowhuddidis’ is something of a curveball, veering into bluesier territory with some clever, confusing rhythmic trickery from drummer Johnny Dee, but it’s ‘Harleys and Indians (Riders in the Sky)’ that comes as real surprise. Tribal, cyclical and hypnotic, it’s a bit of a departure, but one that brings a pleasing change of mood. ‘Far and Away’ serves a similar purpose in the latter half, albeit in a very different way. Where ‘Harleys’ feels raucous, ‘Far and Away’ is acoustic and pretty, the addition of violin only enhancing the beauty.  

 

In terms of natural singles, it’s easy to see why ‘We Rise’ was selected as one. Deceptively gentle at first but building to a killer chorus that makes you want to punch the air, it has the hallmarks of a future live staple. And Ged Rylands’ keyboard solo reinforces my view that most rock bands are enhanced by the addition of some keys! In terms of highlights, ‘We Rise’ is certainly up there, but the title track and epic power ballad ‘The Picture’ steal the show. The former is perfectly placed as the album’s centrepiece, the soaring chorus quite majestic; the latter is likely to leave your cheeks moistened with tears, as you lose yourself in lyrics that are relatable and achingly sad.  

 

‘The Brave’ brings the album to a jubilant close, a celebration of those in our communities who are often overlooked but ultimately keep things functioning. Guitarist Harry Scott Elliott’s lovely solo is melodic and moving, the last of many great moments he contributes to a record that is consistently classy. And speaking of class, the a cappella finish definitely fits that description. 

 ‘Closer to the Sun’ is an album that keeps inviting you back to bask in its warmth. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear these songs live when Tyketto tour the UK later this month.