Al Shalliker has always had a knack for songwriting that balances emotional depth with an uncanny ability to capture life’s peculiarities. His latest single, Time Out of Mind, released on 11th October 2024, continues this trend, offering a witty and introspective look at the allure of self-destruction. The track serves as the first glimpse into his highly anticipated second solo album, The Diamond Hill, which is set to drop in November.
Time Out of Mind marks a notable evolution in Shalliker’s sound. Described as a “rock and roll tinged surrealist retrospective,” the song tells the story of a hedonistic lifestyle through a humorous yet thought-provoking lens. Shalliker’s lyrics explore the motivations that can lead one down a more destructive path, highlighting both the chaos and absurdity that often accompany such experiences. Rather than presenting a moralistic critique, however, the song is reflective and self-aware, offering a snapshot of moments that many might recognize, but with a light-hearted twist that makes it resonate on multiple levels.
The song is anchored by a robust yet simple instrumental arrangement, featuring just guitars, bass, and harmonica. This stripped-back approach is a hallmark of Shalliker’s recent work, particularly evident on his forthcoming album The Diamond Hill. The minimalism allows Shalliker’s voice and storytelling to take center stage, unencumbered by the overproduction often found in contemporary music. The presence of his long-time collaborators Tony Davies on bass and Alex McGinnes on harmonica brings a warmth and familiarity to the track, creating a sound that feels both fresh and nostalgic.
Shalliker’s growth as a solo artist has been substantial since his debut album, Silver Linings, in 2021. His debut showcased his ability to pen emotionally charged songs, with singles like Where All the Music Comes From and The Voyage gaining attention for their depth and craftsmanship. However, Time Out of Mind represents a clear step forward. His songwriting has matured, becoming more refined and focused, and his narrative voice feels sharper and more confident.
This progression is particularly evident in The Diamond Hill, an album that promises to be even more rootsy and raw than its predecessor. Shalliker has embraced a more organic recording process, relying on the chemistry between himself and his two musical collaborators to create a sound that feels intimate yet full of texture. The inclusion of older, reworked songs from his time with Watershed adds another layer to the album, blending his past with his present to create something truly unique.
For those familiar with Shalliker’s work in Watershed, Time Out of Mind offers a fascinating bridge between his past and current projects. Watershed, known for their blend of reggae, soul, and folk-rock, gained prominence in the 1990s and 2000s with albums like Moves (1995) and The Eyes of Eli Wallach (2006). Shalliker’s songwriting was always the driving force behind the band’s sound, and even as he’s moved into solo work, the influence of those years is still evident. Yet, there’s also something distinctly new about his recent material. While the rootsy folk elements remain, they’ve been honed and distilled into a style that feels more personal and introspective, more reflective of where Shalliker is now, both as an artist and a person.
Time Out of Mind is not just a single—it’s a statement of intent. It shows Shalliker as a musician willing to explore new territory while staying true to his roots, blending folk traditions with the experimental flair that has always set his work apart. As a lead-up to The Diamond Hill, the track sets the stage for what is sure to be one of the standout alt-folk albums of 2024.
Fans won’t have to wait long for more music either. Following Time Out of Mind, Shalliker has announced the release of two more singles: Six White Horses and Oh Felicity. These upcoming tracks will likely offer further glimpses into the rich tapestry of stories and sounds that comprise The Diamond Hill, continuing Shalliker’s journey of artistic growth and exploration.
Al Shalliker’s Time Out of Mind captures the essence of a songwriter who has found his voice and is unafraid to use it. The song is a witty, introspective reflection on life’s temptations and excesses, framed within a sound that is as stripped-back as it is impactful. As a preview of The Diamond Hill, the single promises that the full album will be a powerful, rootsy exploration of both the past and present. For fans old and new, Time Out of Mind signals that Shalliker is not only still in the game but pushing the boundaries of what alt-folk can be in 2024.
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