Toby and the Whole Truth – Look Out! (Vol.1)
Toby and the Whole Truth – Look Out! (Vol.1)
Jepsongs Music
Release Date: 08/11/2024
Running Time: 19:58
Review by Beth Morait
9/10
Toby Jepson is a household name to those (potentially oldies) among us who listen to Planet Rock radio station (for any kids reading, the radio is what we had before Spotify, and if we wanted to ‘download’ our favourite songs, we would have to hover with our finger over the record button on the tape player to turn it on once the presenter had finished talking, and then turn it off again when the presenter started talking over the fade out – always missed the last 10 seconds of songs, and it was a roulette as to where the presenter would decide to start talking again.) A few years back I reviewed his 25th anniversary deluxe songbook edition of the “Ignorance is Bliss,” which he originally released early on in his solo career, after departing from British Rock band Little Angels. This was my first real experience of his solo music, and I’ve been a fan since. So, I was very excited to see “Look Out! Vol.1” land in our review queue, as it’s Toby’s first new music release in 11 years.
This is the first in a catalogue of albums that will see 20 new tracks being delivered to us, Toby’s ‘dear listener’ as he lovingly refers to the audience, at the beginning of the album, in a spoken introduction describing the theme and purpose of this album: overcoming mental health challenges. This is something to which a great many of us can relate, and I firmly believe that music is one of the greatest healing hands when the black dog takes hold. Toby tells us that, despite it sounding like a melancholy journey, this was actually the most fun he’s ever had making a record.
Music wise, we get 6 tracks on this first installment, all phonically very different, ranging from classic AOR, to Jazz infused Blues Rock, to almost Punk overtoned Hard Rock, and even a random Country track (with a spurious American accent) to close the album. This is a mature album that isn’t afraid of doing things differently. It’s the musical version of reaching an age where you no longer give a shit what people think, you do what brings you joy, for your sake. And I love that. Again, it’s something which I can very much relate to.
There’s a couple of absolute bangers on this album. Firstly, ‘Sweet Smell Of Success’. It starts off with a modest opening, but soon flourishes into a ‘Blues Brothers’ anthem-esque foot tapping romp, which it’s impossible not to be drawn into. The addition of a brass section and sax makes this all the more fun. Although it does have a very random abrupt ending which, no matter how many times I listen to it, I just can’t get my head round!
That’s followed by ‘What Will It Take,’ which is completely different from the previous track, with a very current, almost pop feel. Piano and voice take the lead here, which is an instant win for me. And the backing of strings and understated guitar gives everything an almost Floydian feel. We also get treated to the full range of Toby’s voice here, from slightly gravelly lower tones to some beautiful high notes that are pinpoint perfectly delivered.
If you’re looking for something a little different in your rock, that just throws caution to the wind and does whatever feels right, then this is a good place to start. I’m really looking forward to the next installement of this album already.
TRACKLISTING:
01. Introduction
02. Alone With You
03. Sweet Smell Of Success
04. What Will It Take?
05. Throw It Away
06. One Track Mind
07. The One Turns Out The Light
LINE-UP:
Toby Jepson – Guitar, all Vocals, Pro Tools programming and Percussion
Dave Kemp – all Keys, Saxophone, and Horn arrangements
Matthew Eldridge – Drums
Chris Blanden – Bass, Cello
Jason Barwick – Lead Electric Guitars
Sam Wood – additional Guitars
Strings arranged and performed by George Hall
Additional Hammond organ – George Hall
Horns section – Dave Kemp (Saxophone), Stuart Wilkinson (Trombone), Ian Chalk (Trumpet)
Banjo performed by Leon Hunt
LINKS:
Disclaimer: This review is solely the property of Beth Moriat and Ever Metal. It is strictly forbidden to copy any part of this review, unless you have the strict permission of both parties. Failure to adhere to this will be treated as plagiarism and will be reported to the relevant authorities.
