Rossi / Rickard : We Talk Too Music – Album Review – is it really that far removed from Status Quo?
This is a delightful collaboration between Francis Rossi and Hannah Rickard with their album “We Talk Too Much.” This album marks a departure from Rossi’s work with Status Quo, offering a fresh and joyous collection of songs that are sure to uplift and inspire.
Francis Rossi, the legendary frontman of Status Quo, a name synonymous with rock music. Known for his iconic riffs and melodies, Rossi has been a driving force in the music industry for decades. Hannah Rickard, a talented musician and singer, joins Rossi on this album, bringing her unique style and exceptional violin skills to the mix. Together, they create a sound that is both refreshing and nostalgic.
“We Talk Too Much” originally released in 2019, and now, for the first time, it’s available on vinyl. This album showcases Rossi’s love for country and Americana, diverging from the classic rock sound of Status Quo. It’s an album filled with upbeat, positive, and fun tracks that are bound to make you smile.
One of the remarkable aspects of this album is its melodic richness. Rossi’s songwriting shines through, with each track displaying a strong sense of melody that is characteristic of his music. Whether you’re a fan of ELO, R.E.M., or Robert Plant and Alison Krauss, you’ll find elements of these influences woven into the fabric of this album.
Tracks like “Ought to Know by Now,” “I’m Only Happy,” “Sinking in Blue,” and “Maybe Tomorrow” have a touch of the Status Quo essence, yet they stand on their own with distinct arrangements and instrumentation. Rossi’s approach to songwriting on this album focuses on melody, making it a collection of perfect pop songs at its core.
During my recent interview with Francis Rossi, he shared insights into his creative process. He mentioned that he writes all his music on an acoustic guitar, which brings a different dynamic compared to the typical band setup. This method allows the melody to take center stage, creating songs that are inherently melodic and timeless.
Rossi and Rickard’s vocal harmonies are a highlight of the album, adding a layer of beauty to each track. Rickard’s violin playing complements Rossi’s guitar work, resulting in a harmonious blend that is simply enchanting.
One of my favorite tracks on the album is the title track, “We Talk Too Much.” It has a strong ELO influence, showcasing Rossi’s admiration for Jeff Lynne’s songwriting. The album also features an extra track on the vinyl edition, “Broken Memory,” which is a fantastic addition to an already stellar lineup.
As the sun shines and summer approaches, “We Talk Too Much” is the perfect soundtrack for blue skies and warm days. It’s an album that exudes positivity, joy, and a sense of nostalgia. Whether you’re a die-hard Status Quo fan or just someone who appreciates good music, this album is well worth a listen.
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine