Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating * * * *

The world of social media has opened the eyes of many to the possibilities that surround them, there is so much good to be found that the benefits are there to be shared, a sense of the collective that makes the world a smaller, united place -when it goes right. Unfortunately, with every possible light in the world, there must come darkness, and too often, not just in the ethereal but in the living of the moment, we are almost implored to flagellate ourselves for someone else’s amusement.

This belief is arguably true in the sphere of art, the constant and increasing thought that art comes for nothing, that it is treated in the eyes of some as a game, a side show, a hobby created to fill up time. Some will even sit back and criticise out of spite, barking orders to the artist along the lines of Hurt Yourself And Entertain Me, almost doing the job dictated to by Caesars as they choose the fate of gladiators, of politicians as they decide providence for some and despair for others.

Hurt Yourself And Entertain Me, the reminder that art is not free, that it speaks in volumes across the board and is fundamental to human existence, without it we are trapped as the canary sent into the mines, we breathe but soon enough we expire, no freedom of expression, just certain consequence of failing to listen to our soul.

It is to the soul of Duncan Ewart that the listener must thank, the reminder that music is a form of getting your point across, of storytelling and exposing the pain you may feel, the joy that you wish to share.

The four strong songs that make up the E.P., Cartoon Logic, Modern Loneliness (which features Adam Harraway), Ledges and the title track Hurt Yourself And Entertain Me, sees Duncan Ewart open his considerable heart and tackle in his own unique way issues that many would happily sweep under the carpet, that many will refuse to discuss. It is though, an E.P. wrapped around heartache, of melancholy holding hands with fascination and experience. A delight which frames the mind and absolves the feelings of others who will continue to live in a world that denies them the purity of art and expression.

A wonderfully produced set of songs, ones that continue to evolve the actions of the musician, Duncan Ewart.

Ian D. Hall