Simon McBride has released his new single “High Stakes” with a new video and announces his first album “The Fighter” on earMUSIC set for release May 27th .
Simon McBride: ‘High Stakes’ Official Video
https://youtu.be/eKVneBqG1_M
McBride proves himself a true master of hooklines, from the vocal lines to the riffs and adorning licks, everything is utterly catchy and (even the guitar lines!) truly singable.
Songs like the great “Show Me How To Love”, the straight rocker “Kingdoms” and the new high-energy single “High Stakes” prove exactly that: McBride’s music is all about the songs, the soul.
Whenever this guitar maestro starts a solo on the six-string, it is rousing and impressive, but never a mere means to an end in itself. It’s the work of a musician who has not only deeply mastered his instrument, but also knows how to write songs with substance… and how to sing them! McBride’s raspy, versatile voice is that of a storyteller. One who has seen a lot… and did not call the album “The Fighter” for nothing.
It’s an autobiographical journey, stories of a life on the road, of dreams, opportunities, and struggles. “We can do it, but it just takes time”, he sings in “Just Takes Time”, yet another highlight of the record.
“The Fighter” is a fantastic, impressive, and multi-layered album. It is indebted to the blues and rock tradition, but never anachronistic, always modern, but never concerned about trends.
The new single “High Stakes” shines with an incredibly high-paced energy, combined with hook-laden riffs and a vocal melody that is pure ear-candy. Lyrically, the song touches on the themes of toxic relationships, and “not knowing when to walk away from things…”. It is a fine piece of songwriting, performed with an attitude and energy that was honed from Simon’s years of touring with some of the finest in the business.
Simon comes from Belfast in Northern Ireland, a place that resonates of the best music traditions like Gary Moore, Rory Gallagher as well as bands such as Thin Lizzy, Stiff Little Fingers, and obviously U2. Ian Gillan from Deep Purple thinks, he is one of the best guitar players in the world! He has also played a full tour as a member of Ian Gillan’s band and has played together with all-time greats like Don Airey in the Don Airey band and ex members of Whitesnake in the band Snakecharmer. McBride moves easily between the sweatiest rock clubs in town with no crew, to playing Superstar-venues like the Kremlin Palace with the likes of Ian Gillan, and then returning home to being a devoted father of two.
It is an album made of songs of hope and positivity. |
