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Bandcamp [Release date 05.05.23]
Tim Arnold returns with a concept album about social media, big tech and mental health, which culminated in Arnold’s unexpected diagnosis of autism. Arnold wrote Super Connected ‘in character’, with each song sung from the perspective of different people, each with a unique mental disorder.
Produced by Arnold with additional production from former Jethro Tull bassist Jonathan Noyce and Ben Pelchat, the album was conceived with guidance from Arnold’s mentors Kevin Godley and the late Lindsay Kemp.
Opening with the single ‘Start With The Sound’ you can hear echoes of Ultravox (particularly on the violin solo by Jonathan Hill) and Jesus Jones in the electro backing. ‘Super Connected’ has a distinct pop feel, coupled with a nod to David Bowie (which carries on into ‘You Like My Pictures’) and Kate Bush. Another single perhaps? The sax/horns are very addictive it has to be said!
There is lots to listen to and enjoy here, including the progressive leanings on ‘Where Am I IN All Of This?’. Shades of Radiohead and Porcupine Tree on this song. The quirkiness off ‘Finally Everybody’s Talking’ throws in a curveball towards the end of the album. There is even a guest appearance by Stephen Fry on ‘A Commercial Break’.
The concept may be aimed at the overwhelming use, and concerns that are associated with social media and big tech, yet there are glimmers of hope and how it can be used for our own good. ‘Send More Light’ and ‘Start A Conversation’ shine a little light and hope, the latter a beautifully crafted piece of pop featuring a Lockdown Zoom gathering on backing vocals.
Tim Arnold has been working on this piece of art (for not only is there this album, but a whole host of visual ideas and theatre all linked to the music – all of which is brought together at the Roundhouse show), for the past five years and it is easily his most accessible, enjoyable and complete album to date. It’s progressive pop at its finest. ****
Review by Jason Ritchie
Album launch gig May 12, Roundhouse, London
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