Label: Verdigris Records
Released: 6th December 2024
On his debut EP ‘Surface Tension’, Glasgow’s latest purveyor of carefully curated danceable melancholy ODD LUKE – aka musician, songwriter and producer Andy Black – has mastered the art of turning his many (many) complaints into pristinely produced pop songs. His time as Lewis Capaldi’s touring mate has clearly taught him a thing or two about getting down his personal grievances.
The Bastille-esque ‘Found Life’ opens proceedings like a diary entry set to glimmering electronics, with AURORA collaborator Magnus Skylstad helping to add just enough sparkle to make the wallowing about expectations worthwhile. The production prowess and genuine feeling throughout the EP as he embraces trying to resolve life’s woes is consistently impressive. ‘Punches’ is a particular highlight.
Unfortunately, it’s overshadowed somewhat by the feeling that ODD LUKE has a tendency to blame others for his unhappiness; many of the lines here are masterclasses in how to tell on yourself while thinking you’re telling on someone else. A little bit more self-awareness wouldn’t go amiss. As it stands, it’s rather like watching someone rehearse their dramatic exit without ever actually leaving the room.
Leave a Reply