Armstrong - Under Blue Skies

Released: Jul 2019
Label: Country Mile Records and The Beautiful Music
Listen on Spotify

'Armstrong' is Welsh songwriter Julian Pitt and this is a re-release of his 2007 album 'Under Blue Skies'. It is well deserving of a re-release as (to my knowledge) it was overlooked the first time around. When you listen, you will wonder why, as it is a great collection of well-crafted pop songs.

'Baby You Just Don't Care' is a highlight for me and brought to mind Burt Bacharach and The Pale Fountains. The soaring harmonies in the chorus are just magical. 'The Things That Pass You By' creates wistful feelings lyrically, but still manages to be uplifting. 'September Skies' sounds quite like the Beach Boys in places, giving it a timeless quality.

On the whole, this is a beautiful record and highly recommended, especially if you like thoughtful, emotional lyrics and nice harmonies. The perfect soundtrack to a summers day, or indeed any time of the year.