With his ‘Bonnie and Clyde/Colour of Surrender’ launch night at The Hug and Pint approaching, Mark McGowan has created a hype, going from relatively unknown, to the must see act in Glasgow.
‘Bonnie and Clyde’ starts with a buoyant riff on acoustic guitar filled with sweet ornaments – already a nod in the direction of the old traditional folk singer-songwriters of the past.
The likes of folk, soul, blues and jazz are becoming a bigger influence on today’s music, although it can be hard to simply use inspiration rather than appropriating other artists art, but his style is distinctive and unique.
“He was just a boy”; McGowan’s voice is poignant with that first line, soulful and true it beckons attention.
As the song continues, McGowan doesn’t just sing, he tells a wistful story of a couple; his voice and the guitar creating a raw captivating sound.
At times strings are introduced, though faint they compliment the instruments well, while throughout there is a nostalgic vibe that as a listener I can connect to; believing every word, his lyrics are moving, even if they don’t mean do be.
The lyrics in this particular song are an indication of his advanced song writing, listeners can be active with their imagination and interpretations.
‘Bonnie and Clyde’ is a charming piece with excellent musicianship, McGowan knows how to carry this song and perform it and tell his story in a way that is alike to the great folk and soul artists of the past, but Mark McGowan is completely his own and doing something different.
Words: Olivia Campbell
