Approaching his fifth decade, Kelly Jones has certainly taken a step back in recent years from the fast-living sound of the Stereophonics we are used to.
Last year’s collaboration with Patty Lynn and Dwight Baker of The Wire and The Wave saw Jones delve into the world of Folk and County music. This latest album we see Jones deliver heavily from his piano. A welcome discovery from myself, having found ‘Before Anyone Knew our Names’ to be some of Jones’ best work of recent times, featured on his last solo live release.
This album opens with title track ‘Inevitable Incredible’, a classic Kelly Jones track laced with self-reflective lyrics sprinkled with optimism. ‘Turn bad into good’ involves a second mention of religion, devils and crucifixes are becoming a common theme in Jones recent work. As often, Jones entangles both beauty and sadness into his music, sparking emotions of past feelings in his listeners, ‘Time running away’ does exactly that.
The album’s latest single ‘Echowrecked’ is arguably the most upbeat track on the album, the only to include drums although I would not necessarily describe it as a highlight for myself. I found ‘Monsters in the house’ to be a personal favourite, I think we all need to metaphorically “check under the bed” from time to time.
Closing track ‘The Beast Will Be What the Beast Will Be’ has potential to reflect on his relationship with Stereophonics late drummer Stuart Cable but I think it stands as more of a reminder to the lister to give yourself a break and think of one’s humanity.
One of the most distinctive voices of British rock, Jones is equally complimented by piano and string arrangements as he is backed by the Stereophonics. As excited as I will be for a return of the Stereophonics to the UK’s live circuit, this delicate side project is most welcome.
Kelly Jones: Inevitable Incredible – Out 3rd May 2024 (Ignition Records)
Jones – Echowrecked (Official Video) (youtube.com)
