‘Clearwater’ from No Fixed Abode is an album that reaches out on many levels. First, it’s a well produced, exceedingly tight performance by two talented songwriters with superb vocals and dazzling musicianship. Then it’s a melange of stylish melodies that blend folk, jazz, blues, country and rock influences in a mix that’s hard to classify. It’s almost chasing a squirrel under a blanket, just when you think you’ve caught it - it’s off again. Then it’s an eclectic mix of songs that touch you in so many ways. There are songs that protest and celebrate, intoxicate and seduce, songs of loneliness, love and longing.

No Fixed Abode is Una Walsh (vocals) and Tony Dean (acoustic guitar) although on ‘Clearwater’ they enlist the talents of some excellent musicians. Among them are violinist Patrick Walker, Jim Palfreyman on piano, Nip Heeley drums and percussion, and Paul Hopkinson electric guitar - and some guy called Ashley Hutchings on bass.

Any attempt to pigeon-hole No Fixed Abode begs unavoidable comparisons of Una’s voice to Joni Mitchell or Judy Collins, perhaps with a touch of Sandy Denny in there too. But such comparisons although useful for reviews are undeserved, Una’s voice has its own style and needs no analogy. Tony’s gifted guitar style and sensitive playing builds just the right platform for Una’s voice. There’s a strong musical bond between these two that many duos will envy – in whatever style they play.

So what do the tracks offer?  Well here’s my preference. The opener ‘What Did I Do?’ grabs you from the first - great melody and some tasty violin. The title ‘Kebab Crazed Nutter’ intrigues before you listen but once you do you’re hooked. This is a driving song with a powerful message - great lyrics and strong delivery. ‘Modern Life’ breaks away from a ‘folk’ mould to combine Una’s voice with delicate piano and elegant brass, soft as velvet and twice as seductive.

A key strength of this album (and Walsh& Dean’s skill) is the changes that work just when you feel comfortable. There’s an almost psychedelic feel to ‘Absent Friends’ with its wraithlike quality that perfectly reflects the lyrics. ‘Will You Come Dance With Me’ evokes a timeless otherworld and ‘School Days’ takes the journey a step further with great guitar licks and spot-on effects. ‘Call Me’ is a flawless example of a pure and simple song that needs nothing more – it’s just right as it is. ‘Going Home’ is a beautiful ballad with a powerful melody, finely placed guitar and soft violin. The album closes with ‘The Time Has Come’ – a final captivating outing for the Walsh & Dean fusion. 

So there it is - ‘Clearwater’ - eleven songs finely crafted by creative songwriters. You’ll love it.

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