Mike Marlin, ‘Man On The Ground’ – Album Review

It’s becoming apparent that the importance being placed on young talent in the music industry is slightly misguided. Yes, they are young, effortlessly good looking and sing like angels. But the problem is a lot of these young musicians simply have nothing to say. However, at the other end of that spectrum you have Mike Marlin, at the age of 50 releasing his second album ‘Man On The Ground’ just 12 months after his debut ‘Nearly Man’ landed him a slot at HMV’s Next Big Thing Festival last February.

After 25 years in the making ‘Nearly Man’ was filled to the brim with a bucket load of ideas but came out lacking the direction it so desperately needed. However in the 12 months since its release Marlin has refined his approach and produced an album which encapsulates the ideas behind the music, whilst holding it all together within a coherent and thought provoking album. ‘Magician’ opens up proceedings building with a piano and thumping, yet understated drumming leading to a crescendo as a guitar works itself into the mix and the tracks develops itself beautifully into the chorus. Mike Marlin’s voice stands out over the stunning musicianship; its baritone is deep and rich – reminiscent of David Bowie.

Producer Catherine Marks delivers a stunning piano performance throughout the album, taking centre stage on ‘Steve McQueen,’ proving that Marlin can strip back his sound while managing to produce one of the best tracks on the release. Throughout his many years Marlin has developed a way of building a narrative into each track, and in many ways simplifying his approach to the instrumentation of this release has given the lyrical content more room to shine. It provides a platform for the listener to get lost within tracks that range in tempo and mood, from the sombre ‘Left Behind,’ to the pulsing ‘Hymn To Disappointed,’ to the uplifting ‘Girl From Chelsea Bridge.’

Marlin may be influenced by the likes of Elbow and The National, but this 50-year-old singer songwriter has managed to create a distinctly Mike Marlin sound. It’s often sombre and sobering subject matter is gorgeously delivered along with instrumentation that matches up to Marlins striking vocals. For it’s last foray the album plays out with ‘Travel The World’ with Eleanor McEvoy’s beautiful voice accompanying a perfect end piece for the album. Mike Marlin has found his true sound with this release – truly interesting and stunningly melodic, this album sees him capture his best song writing to date.

4/5 Stars

Check out the video for Mike Marlin’s acoustic version of ‘Left Behind’ from his album ‘Man on the Ground’ HERE:

By Connor O”Brien
Twitter: @Connor_O_Brien