Liverpool’s rising alt/rock/folk outfit, Thomas Bradley Project, makes an impressive debut with their first single, All I Ever Wanted. A beautifully crafted love song set against a laid-back blues groove, the track embodies the warmth and authenticity of classic songwriting while carrying a contemporary, fresh appeal. Drawing inspiration from Led Zeppelin’s acoustic side, Van Morrison’s soulfulness, and the introspective nature of singer-songwriters like Bob Dylan and Peter Gabriel, All I Ever Wanted is an ode to love, wide-open landscapes, and the serenity of nature’s influence on creativity.
From the first few notes, All I Ever Wanted establishes itself as a song that feels instantly familiar—like something you might have heard before but can’t quite place, giving it a timeless, nostalgic charm. The blend of folk-infused melodies, bluesy grooves, and gentle rock flourishes makes for an easy yet deeply engaging listen.
At the heart of the track is Thomas Bradley’s evocative vocal performance, carrying a sense of sincerity and longing that aligns perfectly with the song’s theme. His voice is warm and rich, effortlessly shifting between a heartfelt softness and subtle intensity as the song progresses. The guitar work is exquisite, with Phillip Hall’s acoustic strummingproviding a strong foundation, while Bradley’s lead guitar work weaves in delicate yet expressive melodies.
The rhythm section—Finn Bryan on bass and Paul Keelan on drums—adds a dynamic groove without overwhelming the track’s natural flow. The live drum recording elevates the overall feel, giving it an organic and authentic quality that might have been lost with programmed percussion. This attention to detail in the recording process, led by Bradley himself from his home studio in Liverpool, speaks volumes about the craftsmanship behind the project.
Lyrically, All I Ever Wanted captures the essence of love in its purest form—longing, devotion, and an appreciation for the simple beauty of being in love. Written while Bradley was on a solo retreat in the wild landscapes of Wales, the song is heavily influenced by the peaceful solitude and inspiration that comes from being surrounded by nature. This connection is visually represented in the track’s artwork, shot across the Mersey from Liverpool at West Kirby by Edie Lees.
The lyrics are straightforward yet poetic, avoiding unnecessary complexity while still carrying emotional weight. There’s a storytelling element to the song that feels reminiscent of classic folk traditions, making it accessible yet deeply personal.
As the debut single for Thomas Bradley Project, All I Ever Wanted holds significant weight. It’s not just the introduction of a song—it’s the introduction of an artist with a clear vision, an unmistakable passion for music, and a deep well of influences. The comparisons to Led Zeppelin, Pearl Jam, Greta Van Fleet, Bob Dylan, and Van Morrison are well-earned, yet Bradley and his band manage to carve out a space of their own within the folk/rock landscape.
The recording and production process was a personal journey for Bradley, who not only arranged and produced the track but also took on the challenge of recording each band member separately for the first time. The result is a polished yet heartfelt sound that captures the essence of a live performance while benefiting from the precision of studio work. The track was later mastered by Ben Booker (who has worked with legends like Elton John, Bob Dylan, and PJ Harvey), adding the final touch to its sonic richness.
Beyond the studio, Thomas Bradley Project has already made an impact on the live music scene. The band’s recent performance at Liverpool’s legendary Cavern Club was a major milestone, and their win at the Ely Folk Festival band competition in 2024 secured them a spot at the festival again in 2025. With a headline show at Telford’s Warehouse in Chester (April 4th) and festival invitations for 2025, the band’s live presence is growing rapidly.
With a strong YouTube following surpassing 250k views, the band has successfully built a global audience, using covers as a bridge to introduce listeners to their original music. Partnering with new management for 2025, there is a sense of momentum surrounding Thomas Bradley Project, and All I Ever Wanted is just the beginning.
For a debut single, All I Ever Wanted is an exceptional introduction. It’s a song that feels both personal and universal, modern yet timeless, blending folk, blues, and rock elements into something truly special. The musicality, songwriting, and production quality showcase the band’s potential, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting journey ahead.
If this track is any indication of what’s to come, Thomas Bradley Project is a name to watch. With more music in the pipeline and an evolving live presence, they are poised to make a significant mark on the folk/rock scene.
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