Album review: BEN REEL – Come A Long Way

Website [Release date 30.06.23]

‘Come A Long Way’ is the 11th album from Ben Reel, with many of his previous releases given favourable reviews by GRTR! reviewer Pete Whalley (who has now, sadly, hung up his keyboard).

This album features 11 brand new self penned songs all recorded & produced by Ben himself in his home studio in South Armagh, Ireland. Lyrically he tells the story of his journey thus far, with most of these song written during the pandemic.

‘From The Day I Was Born’ is a fascinating look at history, specifically wars, from the year he was born in 1971 through to now. It is amazing and frightening in equal measure, how much conflict there has been in such a comparatively short span of time.

‘Loretto On My Mind’ is a lovely bit of country, whilst the up-tempo ‘Hardwired Blues’ was an obvious single choice with its radio friendly sound. ‘Hunter’ has a Roy Orbison feel about it, both in the vocals and the music. Wonderful listening and the album highlight for this reviewer.

Bit of gospel on ‘Let The Road Rise’, dirty under the nails blues on ‘The Finish Line’ and a from the heart piece ‘I Shall Be Redeemed’ finishes the album in style. Ben Reel covers many musical bases, each with deft skill & dexterity.

This reviewer has a lot of catching up to do on the back catalogue of Ben Reel and would humbly suggest, dear reader, that you do to. Lovingly crafted music that would easily find a place in the music library of Bruce Springsteen, Steve Earle and Johnny Cash fans to name but three. Impressive. ****

Review by Jason Ritchie

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Power Plays w/c 9 December 2024

In this sequence we play ‘The Best of 2024′ GRTR! reviewer selections

Featured Albums w/c 9 December 2024

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2024 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003-2024 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2024 (Singer Songwriter)