A couple of years ago I took the dog for a walk and streamed an album called January Came Close to listen to as we took our daily stroll. When I got back, I immediately ordered a physical copy. Great songwriting aligned to the soulful vocals of Tom Hollister had me hooked.
So, when the band’s sophomore effort, “Midnight At The Valencia”, was announced I pre-ordered not straight away. I’m please to report there is no difficult second album cliche here. They’ve taken what worked so well on their debut and enhanced it, adding depth and quality to as sound that had me hooked on first listen.
Opener ‘Ride Home’ builds and builds, with a surprise addition of bagpipes subtly enhancing the song as it draws to a close, before blending into an upbeat track, ‘Falling’, featuring strong melody and crashing guitars.
‘Racing Cars’ follows. Not, as the name might imply, an adrenaline rocker (that’s not their thing), but the first ballad of the record. Led initially by piano and Tom’s amazing voice, guitarist Chris Buck plays soulful lead parts. The only criticism I have is that it came to an end too soon — at 3:47 it could easily have been stretched out and not outstayed its welcome at twice the length.
Another slower track, ‘Breathe’, follows. Building and building, backing vocals adding depth before a gorgeous understated guitar solo. Very much a less is more solo, it’s a great example of why so many musician’s herald Chris Buck as one of the best modern players.
‘Keep on Running’ is a faster paced track, drenched in hammond style keyboards, sing along backing vocals (including those of Joe Bonamassa collaborator Jade McRae) and another lovely guitar solo.
Nothing so far has stretched beyond the four minute mark so mid-way through the album we get ‘Morning Light’. Over five minutes of bliss. The guitar work excels again, as does Tom’s amazing voice. The band simply shines.
More highlights follow before album closer, ‘Your Spark (Blows Me To Pieces)’, which to these ears is simply one of the best songs I have heard this year. Thankfully it’s also the longest on the album, succeeding where ‘Racing Cars’ came to an end to soon.
There is a reason the hype sticker for “Midnight At The Valencia” features endorsements from Myles Kennedy and Slash. IT’s an absolute belter of a modern rock record. It’s firmly in my top records of 2025 already and, if there is any justice, it’ll take the band to a much wider audience and great success.
Simply put, there isn’t a duff track on this album. I’d suggest you just go and buy it. But, if you prefer to stream first, then by all means do so. Then go and buy “Midnight At The Valencia”. You won’t be disappointed.
Rob Jackson | Now Spinning Magazine
