Album review: JERRY HULL – Strange Afternoons

Facebook [Release date 18.05.18]

Jerry Hull is a singer, pianist, songwriter, and arranger, from Memphis Tennessee who is now based in Hull in the UK. ‘Strange Afternoons’, his sixth album, follows hot on the heels of his last album ‘Celebrate In The Sunshine’ released only nine months ago. He is certainly not work shy and this album contains sixteen songs and by his own admission this album includes songs that encompass Americana, soul, gospel, pop, rock, blues, jazz, boogie-woogie, 60’s & 70’s pop-rock and more.

‘You Are The One’ is a big production number, led by the piano as are most of the songs on the album. Shades of Billy Joel in Jerry’s singing and of course as he uses the piano as his main musical foil. ‘Call Of Spring’ follows a similar style with subtle strings and harmony vocals backing, wonderfully uplifting music.

‘Periscope Down’ is a real stand out, a bit of psychedelic fun with a distinct Beatles flavour. Rightly chosen as a lead song off the album and a song you can’t stop playing and enjoying. Jerry can rock out too with the guitar riffs and upbeat piano providing ‘Supercharged Chassis’ with some rocking oomph.

It doesn’t always seem to work though as on the title track is sounds like the vocals are slightly out of sync with the music.

Jerry Hull goes where his musical muse takes him, which does mean it takes awhile to adapt to all the musical styles on offer but it is worth the effort. Head over to his Facebook page and have a dip into his musical pool. ***1/2

Review by Jason Ritchie

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