Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating 8.5/10
We are presented with two states of existence when we are urged to look at the new year and its possibilities, one of careful and observant hope, and another which can be seen as toxic happiness, the frame of mind which insists all around them pledge to show a face which belies their naked spirit, and arguably causes those others to feel something they would rather not confront.
One size does not fit all, however, we must find a balance so that we do not overreach our expectations, but we must also allow the positive nature of our souls to reach out and grasp the belief that things will better in the current time than the one we have just lived through; it is a compromise of human charity infused with a voice that wants us to imagine that we might actually deserve fortune, luck, a different destiny to that which has been ground out and made us suffer.
We live in a time which is in flux, which sees pessimism remove itself from melancholy with vengeance, and where even the simplest of distance is met with cries of derision; the balance required seems to be nowhere in sight…except in the form of the talented Annie Keating and her brand new single Twenty 22.
Upbeat without descending into the obscure, reserved enough to capture the mood of the nation, Twenty 22 is a song of optimism but also one that shows understanding to the collective despair of all who have suffered under the wings of time, of recent memory. Whereas in the hands of another the lyrics and playful melody would be insensitive at best, obliviously tone deaf at its worst, Annie Keating balances both states of mind with precision, and brings forth a song of heartening joy without insinuating or declaring an order to be anything that might be triggering, just to be you.
Annie Keating’s strength comes from her approachable soul, musically receptive, alert to constant change, Twenty 22 is an honest, open, uncluttered track which does not shy away from the vulnerable nature of life, but gently persuades the listener to accept that at some point their year, a month from now, in days to come, life will feel the force of sunshine, and when it does perhaps they will think to this song and be exposed to joy.
A super single, Annie Keating hits the nail upon its head with care and freedom.
Ian D. Hall