Play 90 second soundbite of 'About To Now' @ 'CD quality'
If you asked me to liken Yerkins to someone for reference purposes I'd have to drop the name Elvis Costello into the frame; brash but polished, same sort of innovative style, similarly all-encompassing, maturely conceived and faultlessly executed. Yerkins musical way may not actually be totally pc for much of the fickle youth of our times - he's perhaps just too straight for that sect. However, anyone with a half-decent ear for a good 'chune' and a penchant for well crafted, professional delivery should take a long looksee at Gary Yerkins and 'Compass'. Typically American in style and sound but probably just as commercially viable for the UK market, Yerkins leaves no stone unturned here; 'Compass' is perfection personified and cryin' out 'quality' throughout its entirety. Yerkins' perfectionist attitude ensures that every second of this impressive album is masterfully handled; every moment is readily accessible, beautifully separated and stunningly rounded. Yerkins certainly knows his way around the 'black art' of music-making; he's adventurous and warrior-like as he journeys through emotions and moods but never loses touch with reality and what the end-product should be. Although the twelve tracks here are varied and various, the well-thought-out running order ensures good continuity and seamless listening. Yerkins is as clever as he is astute and his attention to detail is stunning; Yerkins keeps things well grounded and superbly proportioned and doesn't over-cook anything here - although there's always quite a lot goin' on, 'Compass' never feels crowded or in any way OTT!
'Compass' doesn't really go anywhere totally new but Yerkins' musical vision does get the job done with style and aplomb. Although 'Compass' can sometimes feel a bit like an old 'friend' it doesn't ever sound too familiar or too retro. Yerkins varied way is expressive and expansive - again, like Costello, Yerkins makes music that's as near to timeless as it gets. 'Compass' is a pretty special album and Gary Yerkins deserves to reap hefty rewards for his excellent creativity, breathtaking craftsmanship and exceptional musical endeavours - 'Compass' is beautiful to behold, great to relax to and, all-in-all, just a bloody fantastic album!!!
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