Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating * * * * *
Some fear the end, they see it as a finale they were never prepared for, wasting precious time to avoid what they may see as a void, a darkness to which they will never see light appear, refusing to believe the spotlight of enlightenment will ever shine in their direction, perhaps offering salvation, possibly delivering nothing more than the whispers of emptiness.
The End, in the hands of the captivating and assured though is a process of dynamic illumination, for they know the end is not a finale, but a fantastic opportunity to show just how time is on our side if we allow it to breathe, to embrace us, and begin again with insight and a storming desire.
Paul Dunbar returns to the spotlight with his brand-new album, The End, and it is one of unashamed majesty, of rhythm, of strength and power, it has the appearance and fortitude of rippling muscles, as if the guitar he plays has been working out with intensity and taken the music on a trip to the outer reaches of recorded time whilst urging it takes note of all the vibrant colours and sounds it witnesses.
Paul Dunbar’s strength has always been in purpose, to communicate with reason and genuine care, and with an excellent backdrop of fellow musicians that sees Rory Ballantyne, Chris Pearce, George Hitchmough, Ben Oakes, Matt Phillips, Amy Chalmers, Naomi Campbell, Tricia McTeague, Muireann McDermott, and Iain Morley adding flair and vitality to the album’s already intense observations, The End is a perfect partner to the artist’s previous studio outings of Changing Faces and Made My Peace With You.
Across tracks such as Cities, Mountain, The Agitator, Try Again, and Fire, Paul Dunbar displays a ferocious grace wrapped in mental toughness and continuing pursuit of placing the spotlight on those that listen, moving the posts of interaction and emotion to the heart of the audiophile and the fan alike.
Never fear the end, it is not a full stop, it is a chance to take stock and come out fighting with even greater urgency, commitment, and pride.
Ian D. Hall