Andy Fairweather Low & the Lowriders – Zone-O-Tone

Review by Dean Pedley

Andy Fairweather Low has become a renowned sideman over the past few decades, touring with the likes of Eric Clapton, Bill Wyman and Roger Waters and appearing as a backing vocalist on Who Are You. Back in the 60’s Andy led chart topping psychedelic Welsh rockers Amen Corner who were part of the Christmas ’67 package tour headlined by Hendrix that also included Syd Barrett’s Pink Floyd on the bill. With such a long and rich history Andy has stepped out of the shadows and invested more time into his solo career of late and Zone-O-Tone finds him debuting twelve new songs that have been inspired by his love of Stax and Atlantic Soul, Johnny Kidd & The Pirates, Lonnie Donegan and The Shadows amongst others.

Backed by a top-notch three piece band there is something here that will appeal to all; from blues to gospel, country to rock and more than a little bit of soul, the overall vibe being very much rooted in the 50’s and 60’s. For the large part mellow and laid back the band does crank it up a notch on occasion, most notably with the up-tempo opener ‘Dance On’ and jaunty ‘Roll Ya Activator’. Andy has a distinctive croon and when combined with some dazzling guitar work it is easy to see why he has all too often found himself much in demand from some of rocks most distinguished names. The songs are Andy embarking on a personal journey that is unashamedly about nostalgia and those that have grown up with him throughout the decades will doubtless find much here that will inspire.

Zone-O-Tone is available now via Proper Records and Andy and his band will be on tour throughout the autumn, stopping off at The Robin 2 on October 18^th and The Artrix in Bromsgrove on November 21^st.

7 out of 10

• Andy Fairweather Low’s Website

Track Listing:

1. Dance On
2. Deep River Blues
3. Let Me Be Your Angel
4. Roll Ya Activator
5. Hard Way To Go
6. Breakin’ Chains
7. Love, Hope, Faith & Mercy
8. La La Music
9. Unclouded Day
10. Mother Earth
11. You’ll Never Beat The Devil
12. Blood Toys
13. Unclouded Day (slight return)