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May 25, 2016 Kate Jackson By Aug Stone

British Road Movies is a strong, confident debut from the former Long Blondes frontwoman. And why wouldn’t it be? Kate Jackson has always had flair and talent to match, and this new collection of 10 songs was co-written and produced by Bernard Butler. “Metropolis,” with its enchanting refrain of “this city pulls me to pieces,” is one of the best songs released thus far this year. And there are three other tunes that stand at least as tall. “Wonder Feeling” has a bouncy, almost Van Halen-like feel, and its chorus of “wonder feeling, take me to the motorway” a great call-back to her old band, devoid of any sentimentality and keeping the vision looking forward. “Stranded’” has another chorus melody to die for, the kind that make you wish it went on that much longer. And “The Atlantic” has a great Eno-esque glam rock feel to it, her own “Needle In the Camel’s Eye.” The rest of the songs on British Road Movies aren’t driving that far behind either. Opener “The End of Reason” is pulsing synth-pop complete with ethereal voices and bursts of interwoven single note guitar lines flashing through like streetlights. A piano ballad bordering on desolation, “Last of the Dreamers” again has its roots in glam, though more Bowie this time. Closer “Velvet Sofa From No. 26” retains this ambience but now over jazz-tinged chords on keys and guitar. The term “cinematic” is often used to denote a certain lush, orchestral sound but when Kate uses it to describe this very much rock ‘n’ roll record the word is spot on. The songs, through both their lyrics and musical atmosphere, offer up very visual vivid scenes. And very appealing ones at that. (www.katejackson.co.uk)

Author rating: 7.5/10