Alfie Firmin - Absentee

Released: 12 May 2023
Label: Bobo Integral

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Alfie Firmin, from Southend On Sea, is a new discovery for me. He has released a number of solo albums, also with the band Vestiges (it is well worth checking out their song Evelyn too if they are new to you). 

The album opens with 'Can't Stop Thinking About You' which is a wonderfully melodic and heartfelt ballad. His sound recalls the classic guitar pop of the 60s/70s (Beach Boys, Harry Nilsson e.t.c.)  and there are hints of Soul too. It also brought to mind the more recent band - Whitney.

Other highlights include 'Lost on Me' which had hints of John Lennon - Jealous Guy. It is sublime and laid-back like most of the songs here. 'Drivers' is stripped back and melancholic. 

'Pure O' has more Americana vibes with some lovely pedal steel. 'Absentee' is more Folk with hints of Simon & Garfunkel. It ends on the gorgeous love song 'For The First Time' which has glorious vocal harmonies, giving it a timeless quality.

A superb album full of subtle melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Highly recommended.