Bob Bradshaw | The Ghost Light Review

By Bea Willis

Bob Bradshaw is a singer and songwriter that prides himself on being a storyteller. His lyrics craft a compelling cast of characters, and their emotions allow you to inhabit them with complete and utter conviction. Bradshaw’s new album is titled The Ghost Light, and it is a collection of characters that will engage you. The cast range from an impulsive daredevil plunging over Niagara Falls in a wooden barrel; to a sea-weary pirate lured to his death by a choir of sirens. More often than not, though, he’s simply an everyday soul searching for meaning, hope, and redemption wherever he can find it. “I’ve never been the kind of writer who picks up a pen to process his personal life or purge his emotions,” says Bradshaw. “I write to create, to imagine, and every track on this album is its own little world.”

The opening “Songs on the Radio” pulls from memories of a long-abandoned romance. Full organ and electric and acoustic guitars fill the space around Bradshaw’s singing. The character grapples with heartbreak and regret, memory and nostalgia. The overall sound is a potent mix of folk sophistication and rock and roll force. The harmonized guitar parts add an added feature, provided by guitarists Andrew Stern and Andy Santospago.

“Dream” has a retro 50’s rock vibe with acoustic walking bass and a swaying feel. Bradshaw’s vocals are effortless on the ears, and the vocal harmonies support him during the chorus. The pedal steel offers a sonic variance and that remarkable haunting quality of Americana. Bradshaw shows he can sing many styles with conviction.

The Ghost Light is a collection of songs representing various characters and stories that you will find easy to follow and relate to repeatedly. The emotions expressed by the characters are honest, and the band’s playing is outstanding. Though Bradshaw’s singing style falls into the songwriter category, his tone and control are not the focus or driving sound of the songs; the focus is the emotion and overall vibe of the song’s impact on the listener. The music is impressive all the same, and a rewarding listen.

5 Finger Review Rating!

Artist:    Bob Bradshaw

Buy on Amazon

Label:     Fluke

Release Date: April 30, 2021

About the author

Bea Willis

Author

With an unwavering passion for music that began at the tender age of five, I embarked on a journey of self-expression through the piano, later expanding my repertoire to the guitar and the art of singing. As a seasoned performer in cozy coffee shops and harmonious choir ensembles, I've immersed myself in the diverse tapestry of musical genres, seeking to uncover the intricate qualities that strike a chord within our souls.

Beyond my personal experiences, my journalistic pursuits have led me to explore the stories and inspirations behind the melodies we hold dear. As a music journalist, I aim to delve into the heart of each composition, shedding light on the creative minds that have shaped the soundscape of our lives.

In my downtime, you can find me serenading my loyal canine companion with heartfelt tunes on the guitar or indulging in retail therapy to enhance my ever-growing wardrobe. Songwriting holds a special place in my heart, and I yearn for the day when I can share my creative talents with the world. Until then, my passion for uncovering the emotional power within music continues to drive my insightful reviews and analyses, as I journey through the rich landscape of melodies that move us.