EP REVIEW
Artist – Only Child
EP – Working Class
Release date – May 2017
Reviewer – Denis Parkinson
Warning: This recording contains songs of protest, sung by members of the working class, that some listeners may find offensive.
Most recordings don’t come with such an explicit statement of intent but this isn’t most recordings. This is the new EP by Only Child, the musical vehicle of Alan O’Hare, a veteran of the Liverpool music scene. He wants you to know what you’re getting into. He wants you to open your ears.
This is a 5 song EP that has a common thread running through it. That thread is anger; at inequality, at injustice and unfairness. These are protest songs. These are personal songs.
First song The Likes of Us sets the scene. Identity politics to a driving beat. Short, catchy and meaningful. To me it speaks of lack of control and the frustrations of class divide.Serious stuff. I’m not offended yet though.
Up next is the title track. Another driving song this time about dishonesty and lack of trust. A song for our times. Politicians we’re looking at you.
The pace eases off for the third song Saturday Morning. This is a melodic reflection on alcohol and the perils thereof. This made me think of Orwellian control. Keep the people happy and you can get away with anything. Nice tune too.
My Country is the World name checks Thomas Paine, a figure from the American Revolution famous for the pamphlet Common Sense; something that can seem in short supply at times.
The final song North John Street is my favourite song and it seems to be the most personal. Based on the true story of a man who lived in a doorway on North John Street who then simply died of being cold and homeless. Some things are a disgrace and have always been a disgrace. You should listen.
Political music sometimes attracts accusations of preaching, or humourlessness or a lack of subtlety. This collection of songs is not like that. These are protest songs. They are tuneful and serious and meaningful. Music might not be able to change the world but it can help us focus on what’s important and entertain us at the same time.
Only Child – Working Class is available to buy now. It’s about you and for you. I hope you’re listening.
Denis Parkinson
Review © 2017 Denis Parkinson, Liverpool Acoustic
Working Class is available to buy from Bandcamp
Only Child will be performing at Liverpool Acoustic Extra on Friday 9th June 2017 at the View Two Galley. More details here.
Only Child
Facebook – facebook.com/onlychildmusic
Twitter – @onlychildmusic
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EP review: Only Child – Working Class