Album review: Shoes4Brakes – The Winner Stays On

shoes4brakes the winner stays on

ALBUM REVIEW

Artist: Shoes4Brakes

Album: The Winner Stays On

Reviewer: Stuart Todd

Shoes4Brakes are a lively acoustic duo, featuring lead singer and guitarist Gareth Jones and cajôn/percussionist and backing singer Simon Hadfield. Since the two came together in 2012, Shoes4Brakes have steadily built up a reputation as one of the most exciting live acts on the Liverpool acoustic scene.

Recorded with Jon Lawton at Crosstown Studios, The Winner Stays On is a strong debut, filled with memorable songs and spirited performances.

Highlights include hard driving numbers such as Tell Me and The Flame. The blend of acoustic guitar and cajôn is effective on Icarus, an epic track that builds momentum, while Hold Me Down, benefits from the inclusion of mandolin by James Addis. Lights Go Down catches them in a quieter moment.

The highlight of the album for me has to be the catchy Minnesota, a number that’s proved to be popular at their gigs. The epic title track brings the album to a spirited conclusion. Overall a strong debut that captures the energy of their live sets.

The impressive sleeve design by Lynda Munday is an added incentive to buy this release on CD.

The Winner Stays On is published by Addistock Records and is available to buy online from Amazon and BandCamp.

Review © 2015 Stuart Todd – Liverpool Acoustic

 

Shoes4Brakes

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Album review: Shoes4Brakes – The Winner Stays On

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