Neil McIvor - Free

Published Thursday 15th August 2013
Neil McIvor - Free
Neil McIvor - Free

STYLE: Rock
RATING 2 2
OUR PRODUCT CODE: 142563-20890
LABEL: Independent
FORMAT: CD Album
ITEMS: 1

Reviewed by Lins Honeyman

West Lothian-based singer/songwriter McIvor's latest release was recorded at his own New Dawn Studio and sees the man accompany himself on guitars, drums and bass on this mix of original songs and covers which, going by titles such as "Sight To The Blind", "The Rock Of God" and "I Have The Good News", reflect something of the man's Christian faith. Despite his no doubt valiant efforts, this is nonetheless a somewhat painful offering thanks to almost every track being presented in the same heavy, unrefined and distorted fashion whilst McIvor's vocal style is frequently nothing more than a barrage of yelling that is often out of tune, very low in the mix and difficult to decipher. On the plus side, McIvor sounds like a competent enough lead guitarist but, with lengthy wandering solos ensuring that half of the tracks on the album last between six and 10 minutes, more variety and shorter bursts are needed to make listening to his playing less of an endurance test. Covers of Johnny Cash's "The Kneeling Drunkard's Plea" and the Bob Seger song "Turn The Page" are attempted but it is the best forgotten renditions of standards such as "We Shall Not Be Moved" and "When I Survey The Wondrous Cross" which typify an album of sluggish, samey and amateurish recordings that are difficult to listen to let alone enjoy.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.

Sample Track Listing:
1. The Rock Of God [Listen]
2. Lift Me High [Listen]
3. Overcome [Listen]
4. The Drunkards Plea [Listen]
5. I Have The Good News [Listen]
6. How I Love You [Listen]
7. Sight To The Blind [Listen]
8. We Shall Not Be Moved [Listen]
9. Lone Rider [Listen]
10. Soul Soldier [Listen]
11. When I Survey The Wonderous Cross [Listen]
12. Turn The Page [Listen]

This track data is supplied by the Cross Rhythms CD/DVD review library. Please note that CD tracks may vary according to release region or product version.

Be the first to comment on this article

We welcome your opinions but libellous and abusive comments are not allowed.












We are committed to protecting your privacy. By clicking 'Send comment' you consent to Cross Rhythms storing and processing your personal data. For more information about how we care for your data please see our privacy policy.