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Jan 15, 2019 Web Exclusive By Haydon Spenceley

In 2018 The Beta Band reissued some of their catalogue, ready for them to be devoured and delighted in by a new generation. It seems apt, then, that About the Light, the newest record from the band’s Steve Mason comes across as his most fully formed, joyful, and downright funky as a solo artist. It feels as if this is Mason returning to his roots, enjoying being part of a band again, rather than bringing his compositions to a group of hired hands. About the Light is a muscular, vibrant, even vivacious collection of songs that will thrill and challenge listeners in equal measure.

Mason has been building up to this record throughout his post Beta Band career. In the best sense, this is a grown-up, mature set of songs on which he truly finds and flexes his voice. There are plenty of highlights. Not many would begin an album with the refrain “America is your boyfriend,” poking the bear of those who romanticize the importance of the American dream, but Mason does it here—a layered, cinematic track with a fantastic hook kicking off proceedings beautifully. You’ll be humming it in no time, even if you don’t like it. Elsewhere, “Fox On the Rooftop” rolls and lilts its way through the kind of composition that initially made Mason famous and the driving “Spanish Brigade” enables the band to fully expand and show their range.

At the outset of 2019, it is exciting to see Steve Mason releasing an early contender for album of the year. It might be a bold claim to make so early in the year, but it will be a great album that surpasses this one for depth and range in the coming year. Steve Mason is one of the foremost singer/songwriters of his generation and he only improves with the passing of time. (www.stevemasontheartist.com)

Author rating: 8/10