Simon Fagan Unplugged

Simon Fagan Unplugged

Angela Macari O’Looney

This EP is a pleasantly soothing short collection of acoustic numbers, some taken from Simon’s successful album Outside Looking in. Guitar on each track is intricate. Piano features for Something I don’t know, which is a popular favourite from Simon’s repertoire. The melody line of this song is truly memorable and its choppy beat gives a lovely sense of movement. Harmony comes in as the song progresses, lifting things to a delicious crescendo. A cheerful ooh refrain also lends to the unique, but catchy arrangement!

The guitar intro for the dramatic Tired of Tryin’ is trickling, with chords jazzy. Backing vocals here definitely lift the overall production and the latino pace tempts the listener to dance, it is so deliciously seductive! Simon’s vocal style is adaptable to such a degree, he can pretty much sing anything. However, this type of mysterious song, full of passion is his strong suit.

What’s the point of Looking back has a folksy feel. Rhythm guitar is laid back and the melody is haunting and very beautiful. Lyrics are poignant and a little sad; You gotta get up, you gotta move on, fight your corner, be strong. Don’t spend another year being in the wrong.

Waters Edge is a softly sung number, with Simon’s guitar playing outstanding. His vocal range is demonstrated to great effect, as he effortlessly glides up and down from falsetto notes, in an extremely appealing melody line. He and the guitar are one and as the dynamic increases, you are transported to the scene he paints with his lyrics about running to the water’s edge with his lover. He creates that watery rolling feeling with his plucked guitar style. Love this version!

Tomorrow’s another day begins with a sweet guitar intro. Chords are delicious, as are the romantic lyrics. Simon’s delivery is soothing and the chorus is appealing.

This opportunity to revisit some of Simon’s best songs is a treat for fans. I felt like I was getting a fly on the wall view of him sitting alone, singing and playing his guitar. He has a knack for writing pieces that suit his voice to a tee and this CD is like a private audience with the man himself and his guitar.

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