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REVIEW: Steven Alvarado
Let it Go (Mott Street)

Zeitgeist Music

It's been a while since Mr Alvarado and I crossed path. In fact, it was way back in 2005 when I got more than a wee bit excited about his "The Howl Sessions" release. I drooled rather unbecomingly over that one.

This record sees him creating his "record about heartbreak", which is always fertile ground for a singer / songwriter. Of course, it can also get self-indulgent and narcissistic but that's, thankfully, not the case here.

There are some really delightful tunes here with 'Nobody Knows' bringing back some very unhappy memories. Git. However, he does get a bit more chipper on 'New York', one of the few outward looking moments on offer. He's also put together another top-notch band for this album with Marc Ribot, Kenny Wollesen, Rob Burger and Joe Quigley having served time with the likes of T-Bone Burnett, Norah Jones. Beth Orton and Lisa Loeb, amongst others.

If you only listen to one song before making your mind up, then take a listen to 'Blue'. That should make your decision very easy indeed.

-Stuart Hamilton, Zeitgeist Music