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Lester T. Web - Never Sinking Sun

Lester T Web is a new name on the ukulele scene, but I can let you into a secret - he is the artist previously known as Matt Hicks, who we have heard before.

However, recently his new identity has been making a name for himself as one of the hardest working artists in the ukulele scene, we recently met at the Winchester Ukulele Festival where he collaborated with almost every other artist at the festival, the green room there has never seen so many rehearsals amongst the (most excellent) catering there.

As per the last album from just over three years ago, this is impeccably recorded and produced, no doubt because of the influence and efforts of Phil Doleman. Lester's vocals once again show some special flexibility. Nothing is overproduced and guest artists add just the right amount of their influence.

The opening track "My Dear" features Charlotte Pelgen's delightful vocals. From there it gets difficult to work out who is playing what, lots of familiar names here - George Bartle, Percy Copley, Charlotte, Christopher Shannon.

I'm amazed again at Lester's ability to write such varied music, this is an album of all originals. I guess the advantage of writing your own music, is you can write to suit your voice and range. But, that range is incredible - Before I mentioned elements of Bryan Adams, certainly in "Praying That The Riverbank Holds This Year" there's a bit of Bruce Springsteen this time!

Again, some of it is music in an Americana style without it being overpowering of that influence, "Old Oak Tree" is certainly a bit jazzy. But, what is the genre overall? I'm not going to judge this time - give the album a listen and judge for yourself.

My top track is "Wash Me Down" - there's a lot going on, some clever detail in the vocals as well. Lots of light and shade in the arrangement, I'm still trying to break it down and learn from it for my own music.

Just when I thought I'd heard it all and I was wallowing in the stereo positioning of the vocals, "Waltz In The Dark" surprised me with some subtle harp pluck arpeggios and made me know I'd made the right decision with the album award (see below).

Summary? A great album for ukulele music lovers, music lovers, for background music for your dinner party, one to keep on your phone. Easily something for everyone. The best audio production you are likely to hear in the ukulele world.

I felt a bit mean not giving the last album due recognition, and this is even better, so "Never Sinking Sun" gets a Cool Cat Ukes Recommended Album Award. If there was one, Phil Doleman would get a producer award too, is there anything Phil can't do?

Find Matt Hicks at a festival near you, the album is directly linked on bandcamp. I understand that old-fashioned CDs will be available soon (I'll update this page when they are).

11 tracks, 44 minutes.

Review - Simon Taylor, 21st July 2024