Deadletter frontman Zac Lawrence has shared a stripped-back solo effort ‘Man Overboard’ and announced the release of his debut solo album ‘The Hate’ which is due out on the 1st of December.
Inspired by classic American singer-songwriters of 60s/70s like Towns Van Zandt and Bob Dylan, ‘Man Overboard’ serves up an intimate blend of delicate harmonies and acoustic guitars – Lawrence’s distinctive gravelly vocal softened here by considered melodic reflections, and literary inspirations, as the singer himself explains:
“I’d been re-reading the Grapes Of Wrath when writing this (hence the Steinbeck name check) and used the setting of depression-era America to emphasise the despair and abandonment that a drinking problem prompts.”
Recorded and mixed by Lawrence himself during 2020 and 2021, the 10 songs that span debut solo effort ‘The Hate’ embrace themes of love, vigilantism, isolation and self-destruction. While maintaining the characteristic social commentary familiar from his work with Deadletter – and featuring band members Poppy Richler (Saxophone) and Alfie Husband (drums). – Lawrence’s solo work presents an altogether more home-spun musical palette:
“If Deadletter is me howling at the moon in a faraway valley, then this is me making small talk with a lamp in my bedroom.”
A sweet and tender track that allows Lawrence’s rich and deep vocals to really stand out. With a singalong chorus driven by the captivating backing vocals and a blast of saxophone, the track is a moonlit busker serenade meant for late night listening with just a lamp for company.
Check it out, here
