Midway through 2015, UK singer-songwriter Phil Cooper realized he’d had enough of skirting around the edges of the music business, and decided to quit his job as Technical Director of internet company Clever Digit Media and plunge head first into a fully professional music career. Six months later he has emerged with a brand new album, entitled “Things I’ll Never Say”, which is a real statement of intent to cement that status for good.
Imagine on a rainy day, you’ve packed your bags, tossed them in your car, started the ignition, took one last look at your former life, and then took off without looking back. You don’t know exactly where you’re going, but you know it’ll be better than where you’re at. Phil Cooper soothing, clear voice mixed with poetic lyrics and beautiful compositions makes this album a great life soundtrack.
The songs clearly have a lot of intimate meaning, from a declaration of amorous love, to letting go of a memory that you constantly try to forget and can’t help but remember, as well as social and political commentary. There’s a hint of personal growth and discovery, as well as sadness, hope and even traces of anger. Imagery aside, this album is very cleanly arranged. It’s a perfect mix of folk with softer acoustic guitar strums and edgier full-layered arrangements, as well as complimenting backing vocals.
Those who enjoy music by Howie Day, John Mayer, Jason Mraz, Dave Matthews Band, and David Gray likely will enjoy Phil’s music. If you’re tired of the “products” on today’s music scene and want something deeper and more substantial, then pick up Phil Cooper latest album. He’s quite possibly the most brilliant singer-songwriter you don’t know about and shouldn’t miss. There are very few new artists that genuinely reach beyond the multi-million dollar packaging to truly connect with listeners, but Phil is one of those who can do it.
“Things I’ll Never Say” is an album that only gets better with each listen, and this means a lot considering the fact that it was wonderful the first go-around. Whether he’s wistfully reflecting with little more than his acoustic guitar or cranking out an arrangement backed by a full ensemble, Phil will reward you plentifully with tracks such as “Let It Fall”, “I Don’t Have A Voice”, “Old Wounds (Feel Like New Wounds)”, “Sweetness No More”, “Cold Day In Hell”, “Stepping Off The Edge” and “The Quiet Goodbye”.
Not only does Phil deliver incredible music, but the lyrics and the song construction are amazing. This is an album that boasts a little-used concept in today’s music industry: Every song is worth listening to. From the sappy to the angry, or the love to the love lost, Phil Cooper sings it all with conviction, and wrapped up in melodies that will root themselves into your mind. He captures all the great acoustic comforts of an intimate coffee shop, but refines, shines, purifies and transports it into a bigger, more enveloping, full-ensemble sound that is hard to resist for any music lover. There is seriously something wrong with you if you don’t like this album.
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Thanks for your kind word Rick.