The A Train - Don't Have Far To Go PDF Print E-mail
New Singles - Rock & Indie Rock Singles
Written by Mojo Wellington   

We all know that the ‘A’ Train is the quickest way to get to Harlem, but nonetheless it is still reassuring to be told that we don’t have far to go.  But The ‘A’ Train don’t seem to have Harlem or Billy Strayhorn uppermost on their minds here, with a sound more West Coast than Upper West side.

With its a cappella opening and the gentle introduction of acoustic guitar, the record evokes the feeling of a campfire singalong.  As the record kicks in, the vocal harmonies briefly disappear, but not for long.  This is a pity, for at times, the vocal harmonies are just too thick, meaning that the lead vocals don’t really cut through the mix.

The production value isn’t my only frustration.  I want to like this song, not least because artist and listener clearly share similar musical tastes (The Band, Bob Dylan, Tim Buckley etc.), but I can’t help but feel dissatisfied by the bridge of “oohs” that lead nowhere, the lack of a truly punchy chorus (this may be a question of dynamics) and the musical jam at the end, which would sit better on an album track than a single.

I actually get on better with the flip-side, "Come Hell or "High Water".  It has a nice catchy chorus and by paying homage to Ray Davies, The Monkees and Fred Neil (Dolphins) in just three minutes, it doesn’t outstay its welcome.

5/10

 

 
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