Short Reviews [Elegant Simplicity - 2023 - "Don't Look Down (at the End of the World)"]

I first came across Steven McCabe in 1996 and have reviewed most (if not all) of his releases since then, so while not an expert on his music I have probably reviewed it more times than most. During that timeframe, Elegant Simplicity has all been about the multi-instrumentalist, although he has toyed with guests here and there, sometimes using singers, sometimes a real drummer, while at others it has just been Steven himself. Here, for the first time in 30 years, and on his 23rd album we have something new, Elegant Simplicity sounding like a full band. Steven provides guitars and keyboards, while we again have the rhythm section of drummer Maurizio Antonini and bassist Hector Ruano, here joined by backing singer Iona MacQueen and lead singer Tomas Baptista, while there are also guests in Giulia Cacciavillani (flute), Jordan Mazza (saxophone) and Joy Lin (violin). I do like the fact that Steven has made this available on cassette as well as CD (for old time’s sake), as the early releases I have from him are in that format. The very first time I played this I must admit I was not a huge fan, but then I soon realised that was down to my own preconceived ideas of what this should sound like, and while it may not be exactly what I would expect from Elegant Simplicity, Steven can do exactly what he likes as it is his band! I don’t know if the songs were written with a class singer in mind, or if Steven first came across Tomas and then changed material to accommodate him, but there is no doubt he is a real find. Steven said to me, “I think I struck gold with Tomas on the vocals”, and he’s right as there is some Damian Wilson in his style, and that can never be a bad thing. Although this is a more songs-based album there are still extensive instrumental sections and the rhythm section have a major place to play in the sound, link together well, while of course Steven combines guitars and keyboards with both taking the lead when the time is right. The overall result is something which is incredibly accessible and enjoyable the first time it is listened to, and once I got past my preoccupation of what I though Elegant Simplicity should sound like I found I got a lot out of this. It is no longer neo prog, but solid crossover, and I am sure some of these could be edited back to radio singles if Steven had the urge. It may be a little too middle of the road for some, but the melodies and tightness of those involved makes this a nice relaxing album with great vocals and songs.