Probably best known for being a founding member of Horslips and Christy Moore’s guitar player and producer for almost 30 years Declan Sinnott has just released his second album as a solo artist.
‘Window on the World’ opens with the Americana inspired ‘Walk With You’. Its plucky banjo riff and descending bass line give it a country inspired funky feel and mixed the vocal harmonies of Declan and long time partner Vicky Keating really makes this a strong and catchy opening introduction to this latest collection.
Other highlights that caught our attention were ‘Can I Hear You’ which has a real feel of ‘On Broadway’ about it. A nice easy laid back vibe once again showcases some excellent vocal interaction between Declan and Vicky. ‘Charlie’s Bar’ is an ode to place of sanctuary and in places sounds a lot like Dire Straits with the melodic electric guitar running through it. ‘Light Box’ flavours the record with a sprinkling of reggae and is inspired by Declan’s own love of photography. Think of ‘Picture Box’ by the Kinks, only slightly more sombre. ‘Time to Gather In’ ends the record with what seems to be a call to arms to all creatives and artist out there to get up and do something. Perhaps inspired by Declan’s time spent working alongside others.
The album is well produced and as expected is full of slick, yet subtle guitar work. There’s no going over the top either musically or lyrically. The years spent working with others has clearly paid off and this collection clearly shows that Declan is someone who is growing increasingly comfortable as a solo artist in his own right.
During April, May and June, Declan will be on tour with Christy for Irish and UK dates and will play his own headline show at Dublin’s Whelan’s on Sunday May 31st 2015.