Work on the writing of this album began in ‘Late September’ 2006. In the initial stages of pre-production I could count on the invaluable assistance of Phil O’Shea and Paul Quinn, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their efforts.
In December I ventured into Q-10 studios in Glasgow with Larry Primrose. We had 20 songs and 20 days booked to record the album. As the number of songs dwindled the number of days grew. Finally by late April we emerged blinking into the sun with a 10 song CD.
Next up was the formation of my band. Please put your hands together for: Steve – guitars/vocals; James – bass/vocals; and Monkey - drums. I’d like to thank them for helping bring my music to life.
Gigs will be played.
Songs will be sung.
&
Wings take you somewhere; wheels bring you home
Hank Williams once said: “If a song can’t be written in 20 minutes it ain’t worth writing”.
Every time I write a song now I have one eye on the clock.
Every artist says a little about themselves so I guess I should say something too. I’m a singer/songwriter from Glasgow and my name’s not really Mr D it’s Paul. I put, what amounted to bedroom demos, on my site, and received so much genuine praise and encouragement that I thought I’d better record my songs properly. I got some money together, booked a studio, and the results are what you’re listening to just now. I could say loads of other stuff but I’d rather let the music do the talking; if there’s anything you really want to ask just message me.
Late at night was the time I did most of my writing for this album. I also think it’s the best time to listen to it. I hope you like it, no matter what time of day you put it on, and before you go, remember….
Smooth seas don’t make skilful sailors.
REVIEWS
"A near perfect Scottish-bred, guitar-pop album that jingles, jangles and shimmers like golden Rickenbackers from the heavens above.'"
--Eric Shea, Rhapsody
"I’ll Keep Looking Around is exactly what The Thrills have been trying to do on two albums...This is the sort of record, that if picked up by a major would become a coffee table hit."
--8/10, Del Day, Americana UK
"Super mellow country rock which is sedate yet enthralling, and draws comparisons to The Eagles and the subtleties of fellow Scots Travis."
--7.5/10, scot-rock.co.uk
"He comes armed with a gentle and poetic phrasing that makes his narratives truly unforgettable...a stunning debut."
--Alex Green, Editor, caughtinthecarousel
"An album of pleasant, melodic pop....these songs mix Californian-styled sunny jangle-pop with Americana and a bit of country"
--8/10, indiepages.com
"Accomplished playing, intelligent arrangements and overall well produced."
-- Paul Finnie, isthismusic?
"The music has a timeless feel that can easily fit into any decade from the last 40 years and the coming 40 years, as well. Such is the music of Scotland’s Mr. D."
-- Bruce Bodeen, NotLameRecords
"Chock full of strummy and glistening guitars, hook-filled gems, and heavenly harmonies! A positively brilliant debut! Can't say enough about this one."
--Ray Gianchetti, KoolKatMusik
"sunny melodies, delicious harmonies. Carefree as the summer."
--John Gjaltema, altcountry.nl
"melodies of polished gold which bring you back to the American West Coast"
--Patrick Donders, hanx.net
"Album opener, Fools Fall In Love, is very reminiscent of Travis. Like all 10 Tracks on this album, it has the catchy melody of Fran Healy and canters along like a well-behaved pony. At first, i thought Island Girl was a cover but it seems its Mr D"
--Rick Fulton, Daily Record
LIVE REVIEWS
"Support band Mr D draw on their love of late 60s early 70s West Coast influences for inspiration-full of dreamy harmonies and subtle emotive changes. New Day, dedicated to singer Steve McCluskeys newborn daughter, was the highlight of a compelling performance."
--4/5, Andy Kerr, Sunday Mail
"The case of Mr D is heard next. In a tactical move, Mr D becomes a four piece band and lodges a special defence of being a bit mellow at the time. Demonstrating that an upbringing based on west coast folk rock does not necessarily lead a man into a life of crime, this band are quickly cleared of all charges of being excessively laidback with their spirited rendition (and a guitar string was actually broken during the giving of evidence) of "I've Been Lookin' Around". A whole lot livelier than their recorded output would suggest, they easily convince the jury that they should be set free to bring tasteful harmonies to the world."
Hello Paul ! We'll be in Scotland in July and in Glagow on the 14th ! Do you think we could meet and possibly play together ? Take care ! Eric & Marlene
Just stopping by to say hi, Hope your easter weekend was great. I had the day of 2day. feeling refreshed. Hav a great week and i'll catch up with you soon.
Anthony Browne POEMS+SONGS
P.S - Current listening Serge Gainsburg and a band called Savannah Jack. Saw them supporting Kenny Rogers Last week. Pretty good.
Hello Mr D It' s a long long time that I wish to pass here but life is so full of stuff .You know . The songs are a pleasure . I love " New day" so much . I see a lot of interesting things in the blog . I' ll take some times and let my impressions.
" Hey girl" is such a beautiful moment, remembering me Paul Simon at his best ( he' s nearly always at his best , isn't he ?)I guess you have " Kathy's song" somewhere at home . Am I right ?
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