Colin Hay : Gathering Mercury

While on first listen it doesn’t contain the obvious, catchy, standout track that his previous albums have – like Waiting For My Real Life To Begin or I Just Don’t Think I’ll Ever Get Over You – this is an album that will reward your persistence. There’s a greater depth to both the musical and lyrical content.

Inspired by the passing of his father, these songs find Hay in a contemplative and pensive state, mulling over the complex relationship between father and son. The opening track, Send Somebody, is one of the album’s most accessible, with the lyrics finding Hay looking for any human connection, even if it is with a call centre phone operator. Dear Father highlights the mournful timbre contained in Hay’s voice, which is never far from the surface, hinting at the pain and loss he is experiencing at the loss of his dad.

Touches of folk, music hall and even a hint of Latin-flavour seep though the album, but it’s the acoustic songwriting and his knack for a turn of phrase that captures your attention. It is a lusher production than normal, layered – a far cry from the Hay live experience, but it works.

A welcome addition to the catalogue, Gathering Mercury is songwriting for adults, free of flash or showiness; it wears its emotion and class on its sleeve.

Best Track: A Simple Song

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In A Word: Introspective

JACK FRANKLIN