If you read our interview with Canadian blues/rocker Steve Hill in the current issue, you may get the impression that his new album had its fair share of trials and tribulations. You might even say it was a bit of an up Hill struggle, if you will excuse the pun. But troubles aside, one thing that the artist’s challenges did not dampen on his new album is the quality of this amazing release.
Fans of Hill argue that Hanging on a String is perhaps his best album yet. And having listened to the record, you would be hard-pressed to argue against that sentiment.
Although not by intention, the release is a concept album of sorts. But don’t expect the traditional type of concept record like Tommy or Quadrophenia by The Who. It has more to do with the fact there is a story or common thread that runs through the album. This narrative became apparent to Hill upon completion of the album.
The title track opens the album with the line ‘woke up in a house on fire’. A note which comes from a true story which the artist encountered following the conclusion of a Canadian tour. And if that doesn’t grab your attention, then nothing will. The song has a real old-school groove, perhaps in the style of hill country blues. The track is underpinned by a foot-tapping rhythm and searing fuzz-fuelled guitar riffs.
The sound on the album switches up thanks to Devil’s Handyman, and the song’s sinister vocals and poetic lyricism perfectly accentuate the mood.
Steve grapples with his life and experiences in the music industry during the autobiographical number Show Ya. It’s an up-tempo blues/rocker fuelled by Steve’s passionate delivery. Show Ya is one of the standout tracks of the release.
Just glancing down the track list of the album, the song title World Gone Insane feels particularly pertinent in the strange times we are living through. The song builds from a slow and sombre introduction into a raging slice of groove rock that, in places, is reminiscent of bands like Queens of the Stone Age.
As the album progresses, the raw studio sound of Maggie instils the live feel of the album. The song is perhaps catchier than The Common Cold and features another heart and soul-performance from Hill. Much like the track which follows it, You Know Who.
The sound on the album ebbs and flows as we reach Turned to Dust. The heartfelt number sounds like the type of song which could soundtrack a late-night drive. Partly, due to the song’s cinematic quality.
Steve’s take on When The Music’s Over by The Doors concludes the eight-track release. With the challenging state of the music industry in the present day, the line ‘when the music’s over, turn out the lights’ feels particularly pertinent. The cover is not only thought-provoking, but Steve also makes it his own.
Steve Hill endured a multitude of challenges to complete his latest album including house fires and injuries, but his uphill struggle has certainly resulted in an album that reflects his hard work and dedication during difficult circumstances. Perhaps, Hanging on a String will give Steve Hill the big break he so duly deserves.
Words by Adam Kennedy
