The arrival of something special is evident when a band supports the Rolling Stones before their debut album is even released. That’s exactly what happened with Hudson Taylor, the duo of pop-folk brothers from Dublin. Their eagerly anticipated debut album Singing For Strangers was released this week. This 21-song epic is reminiscent of Irish folk tracks and the greats of the 60s, including Simon and Garfunkel, to whom Harry and Alfie are constantly and aptly compared. This album combines Hudson Taylor’s classic songs – from their YouTube, busking and early touring days – with their newer tracks. A perfect balance is maintained throughout.
‘Just A Thought’ opens the album. The brothers’ strong vocal harmonies (a key feature of their sound) unify with choruses of rhythm guitars and piano notes, opening the album with a strength that continues throughout. This leads perfectly to the subtle and lovely ‘Butterflies,’ an old fan favourite. The gentle guitar notes and hushed vocals are elements that join with other enchanting songs; ‘Wildfires’ and ‘Night Before The Morning After’ also display a certain loveliness that can be cherished by listeners.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrKbiPyjucU&w=740&h=422]
The band’s classic songs make a prominent appearance on the album. ‘Care’ is wonderfully explosive and charmingly arrogant; lyrics such as “He’s a hypocrite and he should be locked up in a cage” are mirrored in the equally passive aggressive and brilliant ‘Battles,’ with “I will dig a hole and I’ll throw you in it.” The grandness of these songs puts the slightly eyebrow-raising lyrics to one side, creating a combination of passion and anger in the most artistic way. Other older songs include ‘Chasing Rubies,’ ‘Weapons’ and ‘World Without You.’ These songs are evidently products of the brothers’ Irish roots: flurries of violins and repeated acoustic riffs flow calmly through these songs, adding a gentleness to the strength of the album. The newer songs, including ‘Don’t Tell Me,’ ‘For The Last Time’ and ‘Off The Hook’ are more bluesy but recognisably inspired by Irish folk, ending the album with a sound that has progressed from their older songs but still sounding natural beside them.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiW9kIyX8EU&w=740&h=422]
The 9 bonus tracks are mostly comprised of old B sides and tracks from EPs, adding a new dimension to the album. The highlights of these are ‘Holly,’ a heart-warming song dedicated their younger sister, the whistle infused and motivational ‘Second Best,’ and the simply gorgeous ‘Beautiful Mistake.’ This song features the vocals of Gabrielle Aplin, the girlfriend of Alfie Hudson Taylor and much-loved musician in her own right. Of the numerous versions of this song, the album version is definitely the best; it’s like the voice of Harry, Alfie and Gabrielle are meant to be used together, in order to spread sheer joy and beauty.
It’s clear that the love of music these brothers express is more important to them than any record-breaking fame would be; simply watching an interview will confirm this, but seeing them live is better. If they do become a household name, it’ll because of their music’s timelessness. Hudson Taylor have successfully created a lovely record that could be listened to at any time, by anyone at any age, and be loved equally and passionately by all.
Words by Caitlin O’Connor