Tuesday marked the release of William Fitzsimmons 4th release and his 1st live offering. Fitzsimmons albums are all uniquely good on their own but live is where I think his music really flourishes. Based purely on the content of this music, it’s vulnerable and it’s never more vulnerable than hearing it recreated for a live audience. I had the chance to catch him live a few years ago at Jammin’ Java in Vienna, VA. He went through 7 songs and it wasn’t nearly long enough.
As for the release, Live from the Downtown Studios is 7 live versions of songs taken from his most recent “The Sparrow and the Crow” (which in itself, exists in a emotional heaviness that exudes connection – make sure you read the interview done about the album here). The song choice and the order is what I find intriguing – using the two “songs” as a framework of the album which the other songs are then hung from.
As most fans of his music will tell you – there are certain times when William Fitzsimmons is on repeat in the iPod. As much as I think the music once released becomes manipulated by the listener and normalized into our experinces – I’ll try not to put too much on the music.
Here’s my take:
I Don’t Feel It Anymore (Song of the Sparrow) – Sets a dark tone for the album to let you know what you’re getting into. Interestingly, William provides the vocal for both parts in the song. This is in sharp contrast to the album release where it was as if both parties in the relationship were working it out.
Goodmorning – I would say that this is the most hopeful song in the repertoire, I love the “You will find love, you will find peace” lyrics.
After Afterall – In it’s original release this song makes the transition from one album to another. Located centrally on this release with a haunting piano brings forward ideas of quiet resolve and the walking wounded in post relationship blahs.
If You Would Come Back Home (feat Rosi Golan) – This is my favorite track on the album. Williams’ voice dances with Rosi Golan’s throughout the song but at the climax of the song (begins at 2:50) the slight breaking notes of the vocal adds volumes to the music.
Maybe Be Alright – This song is full of regret with the invitation to change course. Some would say that the singer is being a doormat, others could call it the higher road post breakup. I call it coming to grip with the teetering reality of messy breakups.
You Still Hurt Me (feat. Rosi Golan) – I love the guitar flourishes in this track. This song seems to dance through a rough patch
Please Forgive Me (Song of the Crow) – This is by far the saddest song of the bunch. The admission of hurt and guilt and the burdens of past deeds. No mercy is asked for and maybe none is given.
Just yesterday I was taking to a friend about this music and while it’s highly introspective I don’t find it depressing. Is it a reminder of darker days, certainly. But when I hear it now I’m contemplative and love listening while I’m getting work done.
Live albums can be so hit or miss, especially because most are flavored with a ton of studio magic and that changes the DNA – I def recommend checking out this one. If you’re in LA July 25th – don’t miss out on William live at The Hotel Cafe
Check out William on The Drop (click to play below – or download)
