In all honesty, it’s been a while since I’ve reviewed something. I’ve been in a weird spot musically, combing back through albums from my youth, unimpressed with a lot of recently released work. While I’m sure you give a proper shit about what I’ve been listening to, you should know that Martin Luke Brown broke me out of that spell.
“Opalite,” his second single on Manchester indie label LAB Records, is a slightly more pop-forward track than his last release, “Into Yellow.” However, as much as it delves into something you might catch on the radio or a commercial for a trendy brand, it still maintains a rugged, real, and intrepid personality. That’s mostly thanks in part to MLB’s gritty, yet still wonderfully, soulful voice which immidiately grabs you.
Gorgeous vocals aside, there is plenty of instrumental intrigue that will have you nodding in approval. I can personally attest to this and would like to offer a wholesome thank you. MLB, you’re talents have broken this old musical curmudgeon out of gridlock. I’m now flying down the highway, jamming to “Opalite,” grinning ear-to-ear.
Make sure to check out Martin Luke Brown’s work beyond “Opalite,” as it’s simply brilliant. I’ve included “Into Yellow” below, because I just couldn’t help myself. It’s that good.
Artwork Credit: Bjorn Franklin
