Fisherman's Blues (National Album Day 2024) vinyl

Fisherman's Blues, the fourth album by The Waterboys, marks a significant transition in the band's sound, shifting from their earlier style to a more traditional folk-inspired approach. Released in 1988, this album features rich instrumentation that beautifully blends Irish folk, country, soul and rock. The standout title track, while not a blues number, is a poetic exploration of longing and adventure, capturing the essence of Scott's lyrical strength. Violinist Steve Wickham's fiddle work elevates the music, particularly on tracks like 'We Will Not Be Lovers', where his aggressive bowing complements the intensity of Scott's lyrics. The album also includes memorable renditions, such as the haunting interpretation of W.B. Yeats' 'The Stolen Child', highlighting the band's connection to traditional roots. With compositions like 'And a Bang on the Ear', which reflect on love and loss through vivid storytelling, and 'Has Anybody Here Seen Hank', a nod to country blues, Fisherman's Blues remains a timeless classic. This 180-gram yellow vinyl reminds listeners of the band's innovative spirit during a period when musical authenticity often took a backseat. An impactful listen from a very important band.