Artist: Howard Gladstone
Album: Crazy Talk
Release Date: September 20, 2024
Genre: Contemporary Folk
Contemporary roots-folk singer-songwriter Howard Gladstone has unveiled his eighth album, Crazy Talk, via Sonic Peach Music. This diverse collection of twelve tracks blends folk, jazz, rock, and world music, showcasing Gladstone’s signature storytelling.
To celebrate the release, a special concert will take place at Toronto’s iconic Dakota Tavern on Wednesday, September 25, featuring a stellar band including Tony Quarrington (guitar), Laura Fernandez (vocals), Bob Cohen (bass), and Ambrose Pottie (drums), alongside some of Toronto’s finest musicians. As part of the event, Gladstone will also debut his book Timepieces – Selected Lyrics, praised by veteran songwriter James Gordon as “a remarkably compelling collection.”
The album begins with “Show a Little Love” which is a heartfelt reflection on what it means to be an artist in today’s digital world. With its rootsy folk feel, the song dives into the struggles of creating music, forging connections, and the emotional effort behind every song. Lines like “For free I give it willingly / Or hear it stream from The Machine” capture how musicians often give so much without getting much back. The repeated chorus, “Show a little love to me,” feels like a quiet plea for appreciation, reminding us there’s a real person behind the music.
The title track, “Crazy Talk,” is a witty and introspective gem that captures a classic country vibe. Gladstone pays homage to Patsy Cline while exploring the quirky ups and downs of love. The playful chorus, “That’s crazy talk… but then again, I’m crazy too,” perfectly highlights this shared madness. Blending personal reflection with a hint of social commentary, his lyrics strike a balance between lightheartedness and sincerity.
The album closes with “That’s How It Goes,” a haunting, thought-provoking track that reflects on conflict, loss, and the enduring hope for freedom. With vivid imagery like “The broken sky pours down the pain” and “Teddy bear with blood stain,” Gladstone captures the harsh realities of war while repeating the phrase “That’s how it goes” to emphasize the cyclical nature of violence.
With its heartfelt lyrics, diverse themes, and rich musicality, Crazy Talk is sure to resonate with fans of folk and country alike, making it a significant contribution to the genre.