The progression of the music of Steve Mason has been a special thing. Continuing certain traditions established in the tradition-blasting Beta Band, while expanding his own natural skill-set, Mason's back now with Brothers & Sisters. The Domino offering, out tomorrow, may be his best solo work so far.
"I'm on My Way" marries a languid hook with a folk-y stomp, making the number the sort of thing Noel Gallagher's been trying to write for years, while "Let It Go" is expansive and anchored by what sounds like a cimbalon and a tabla. For the most part, the material on Brothers & Sisters" is uncluttered, and more straightforward in its appeal than even some of the best Betas stuff. Mason seems more intent on writing a big tune, like on the bright and lush "Pieces of Me", than impressing with his cleverness. And that's something to dig, certainly.
While some of this didn't work so much for me (most notably the electronica of "Brixton Fish Fry"), the majority of Brothers & Sisters was direct and easy to enjoy. Mason's not lost any of his edge, but he has found a way to polish his approach in order to deliver a more cohesive piece of work. Maybe Brothers & Sisters won't blow your mind like an early EP from The Beta Band, but you may find yourself impressed by how naturally melodic Mason can be. There are still things here that will surprise, but the music may be easier to digest than some of his older work.
Brohers & Sisters by Steve Mason is out tomorrow on Domino.
[Photo: Tom Marshak]