Home » JOHN DOUGLAS – “STILL OR SPARKLING?” (2024, EP, REVEAL)

JOHN DOUGLAS – “STILL OR SPARKLING?” (2024, EP, REVEAL)

by MythofRock

With “Still or Sparkling?” John Douglas of Trashcan Sinatras delivers a refreshing four-track EP that complements his debut album. While his previous work showcased an acoustic purity, this EP introduces a fuller sound without losing the intimate quality that defines his music. Featuring contributions from a lineup of musicians, including Eddi Reader (vocals), Alan Kelly (accordion), Kevin McGuire (double bass), and Boo Hewerdine (acoustic guitar), Douglas once again proves his knack for creating poignant songs. The opening track, “Still or Sparkling?”, is a nod to the early stages of a relationship—flirtatious, curious and filled with promise. Musically, the song pays homage to Roger Miller’s iconic “King of the Road,” with a breezy, double-bass-driven arrangement that feels effortlessly charming. Eddi Reader’s husky harmonies add warmth and depth, creating a duet-like interplay that perfectly mirrors the song’s themes. The inclusion of references to Shirley Collins, Anne Briggs, and even Michelangelo lends a whimsical literary touch to the lyrics, reinforcing Douglas’ ability to blend the ordinary with the profound. The band version of “Lost” reimagines a standout track from his previous repertoire with new vibrancy. The addition of accordion and double bass transforms the song into a more textured experience while retaining its introspective approach. Douglas’ voice invites the listeners to immerse themselves in its emotional fields. What is more, Douglas’ rendition of Van Morrison’s “Across The Bridge Where Angels Dwell” honors the spiritual grace of the original while infusing it with a folk sensibility. Similarly, his take on Tom Waits’ “Johnsburg, Illinois” is a tender homage, stripping the song back to its essence. With “Still or Sparkling?”, John Douglas demonstrates that his artistry thrives in both solitude and collaboration. This EP strikes a delicate balance between the intimate and the expansive, the playful and the poignant. Fans of Trashcan Sinatras will find plenty to love here, while newcomers will be drawn in by Douglas’ ability to craft beautiful songs.

♦ 8/10

Dimitris Zacharopoulos

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