Aaron Shanley

Let The Sun In / The Nashville Sessions EP by Aaron Shanley (Love Gum Records)

Based out of Belfast, Ireland, Aaron Shanley is a remarkably talented singer / songwriter in the grand tradition of Elliot Smith and Dashboard Confessional. And even with those rather ambituous comparisons, one listen to Shanley’s picturesque lyrics and melancholic melodies, one clearly sees an original artist presenting music that is absolutely timeless – and free too!!! Just like his first collection of songs, for now these treasures may be acquired just for the asking. Not one, but two simultaneously released EP’s of emotionally driven tunes that tug at the heartstrings as well as present a reminder of sweet reveries of another day.

Let The Sun In is a collection of tunes showing the wonderful versatility of Aaron Shanley’s work. I’m Coming Down is up first, a stunning piece of musical art possessing both a infinite sadness and glimmer of hope all within the colorful confines of a song. Go Easy is wistful and nostalgic, possessing a shimmering sense of longing and discovery that is quietly devastating.

The title track is haunting yet cautiously optimistic, featuring a lovely co-vocal by Allie Bradley. An interesting choice for a video, yet one of sincerity and beauty that should continue to gain Shanley a solid following.

The best track on the EP is Anna Came Along, kicking off like a phonograph recording in the distance before blasting off in your face with sheer rockin’ force. It’s Aaron Shanley in the honky-tonk cafe, singing about a big bad woman and a warning of “that kind of love will ruin you.” A sizzling highlight to be sure.

The piano takes over, sending the serene sounds of A Little Rain into the hearts and minds of even the most discerning of critics. The gentle, acoustic inflections of Today I shows just how effective Shanley can be with just his wondrous vocals and a single guitar.

And then there’s the mesmerizing closing track Cotton Fields, a sentimental lullaby with a sweet choral section plus a xylophone accompaniment that literally transports the listener to a warm and reflective place. A modern day Irish folk song that is dazzling to behold.

(On some editions,  a bonus track included on Let The Sun In is Sarah Rose – a return to the same nightclub that inspired the rollicking Anna Came Along. The sound is down and dirty and absolutely addictive.  Anna and Sarah are naughty distant cousins that will rock your world.)

Also contained is a second disc entitled The Nashville Sessions EP – another six tracks of stunning acoustic fair. From the romantic strains of I Think I Love You to the folksy waltz of the evocative Julie Was An Old Friend, The Nashville Sessions is charming and rewarding.

My Sweet Marie is a somber and poignant while final track Shame On Me, God Bless You shows just how resourceful, clever and ironic of a lyricist Shanley really is.

Check into the world of Aaron Shanley and prepare to be thoroughly impressed by this astonishing up-and-coming artist. Aaron Shanley is destined to write and record a classic album for the ages – one that is cherished and revered by those from all walks of life. And who knows – with Let The Sun In, many may think he already has done just that…

(Review by Kenneth Morton)

Aaron Shanley on Myspace