As with the previous album, Lean on the Angels was recorded with n-Tracks and a single dynamic microphone. I did by then have electric and bass guitars to complement my six string, but was still using the same three octave keyboard controller with the missing notes and the Selmer Bundy flute I’d had since I was ten. What was new was the blues harp. I used it on several tracks and each one seemed to be in a different key. By the time I’d finished recording I had all the essentials convered.
1. Lean on the Angels
When you’re on the high wire looking down your poise must be perfect. There’s no casual strolling around … more
2. Know Somebody
Went into the supermarket and some lady just scowled at me like I was a foreign lifeform, no-one she wanted to see … more
3. Low Ebb
Seems the rain has come to visit me today. From its attitude I think it’s here to stay. I don’t know who invited it inside … more
4. Back to the Well
I’m coming back to the well that nurtures my soul, washing me pure with the water of love, cleaning away … more
5. Howling at the Sun
Take us back to the summer of seventy three, to a lambent evening on Rue Jolie. We were five up on a motorbike … more
6. Loved You …
I look for my horizon and I find it in your eyes. Your smile is so unknowing, dear, it counters my disguise … more
7. Walked Around …
I walked around the corner to catch a number ten bus. I walked around the corner; there was no more to discuss … more
8. Faded Heart Cafe
On the rocky road from me to you, about halfway between lust and found, sits the faded heart cafe … more
9. Aotearoa
Let us agree to stand as one astride these islands, a shining nation the many colours of freedom in Aotearoa … more
10. Engloutie
That love so strong and soft and supple so could lose itself in lazy, lonely landfall in a shipwreck of desire and bony selfishness … more
11. Back to the Well …
I leant on an angel last night unawares; “perfect for you” flowed into my head. But while we were walking not one word was said … more
Personal highlights?
Low Ebb, Faded Heart Cafe and Engloutie. Elsewhere there are great songs and nice playing, but on these three numbers things gel.
Leigh is repaying karma from a previous life by working out this one in IT. She’s a project manager, developer, writer, musician … and a recovering soccer player.