Anybody remember Del Amitri? They released a number of solid pop albums in the 90’s before disappearing from the scene by the turn of the century. Although I was never a fan of the band’s biggest hit “Roll to Me,†their catalog is rich with intelligent pop songs. Singer-songwriter Justin Currie excelled at capturing a moment; from the pleading lover in “Be My Downfall†to the optimistic “Some Other Sucker’s Parade†(featuring a gem of a lyric, When every heavy sky just empties on your fate, sometimes keepin’ dry’s something to celebrateâ€).
Well, Currie just signed to Ryko Disc. Hopefully we’ll see a proper release later this year. In the meantime, you can preview tracks on Currie’s MySpace page. While there, you can also read Currie’s “Beginner’s Guide to Songwriting.†On the use of simile in sing, Currie opines “Likewise, simile, where the writer might liken his girlfriend’s face to an item of furniture (e.g. “When she smiles at me she looks like a sofa”) can mislead the listener in ways not intended by the author.†And don’t even get him started on the Beck’s songwriting prowess.
Also check out a recent Currie live performance and some Del Amitri videos:
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.