|
Remember
when you first heard music that truly mattered? It changed
the way you listened to music and you just couldn't understand
or explain why. Neil Leyton's third release, The Betrayal
of Self, will no doubt change people's musical perception;
especially those who have been lied to by popular rock culture. The
Betrayal of Self is full of 70's rock aesthetics highlighted
by unbridled passion and rebellion.
Lyrically,
Leyton mixes up Betrayal with songs about passionate
sex ("Pleasures for Ophelia"), the tragedy of
longing for love ("Alone/Together") and his strong
political views on the plight of third world countries,
warmongering, and the un-checked media. While some may
not agree with Leyton's political views, you can't help
but admire his honesty.
Overall,
Leyton's sound reminded me of a rougher-edged Ted Leo,
an indie-rocker, but with a whole lot more groove and excitement.
Part of that excitement is brought on by Leyton's talented
backing band, the Ghosts, who employ heavy-handed rock,
highlighted by renegade organ player Ola Eklof, who manages
to summon the spirit of Billy Preston on Betrayal.
Current
favourite tracks include, "I Just Can't Take Another
Smile" which takes George Harrison's "Taxman" one-step
further by attacking huge retail chains. Also, I can't
help but compare "Done this One Before" to some
of Keith Richards solo work, and "Darkness Falls" is
the perfect closer with its solo acoustic guitar and sweet
harmonica. Hopefully, in the near future Leyton's soulful
boogie rock will be selling out clubs and will be blasting
from your local FM radio station, cause rock 'n' roll needs
a Leyton makeover. (Fading Ways Music)  |
