07.10.07
It’s not for the cock, it’s for the acoustic pleasures
Curtis Whitefinger- “27” (Black Thumb Records)
Curtis Whitefinger is a Nottingham based singer-songwriter, but don’t stop reading quite yet. Unlike most solo males armed with an acoustic guitar and the capacity to pine and whine, Curtis Whitefinger deserves more than to be lumped in with many of these bland modern songwriters. While he doesn’t by any means obliterate the mould, he certainly finds space to breath and be himself within it.
“27” is Whitefinger’s third album to be released on his own Black Thumb Records label and really displays his depth and talent. A variety of excellently mastered guitar styles are more than clear on the album. Gentle finger picking, harsh strums and bluesy lead are all prominent in Whitefinger’s unpredictable but captivating style.
“Call Centre Blues”, the album’s opener, is simply sublime. With gentle but powerful rolling picking and dusty harmonica, the song is almost like a homage to Dylan. Only, as an English songwriter, Whitefinger is more than capable of singing about
Britain and (thank God) doesn’t use a faux American accent. “Call Centre Blues” and “Blue Stragglers” are amongst Whitefinger’s strongest material and really show off his ability.
Like other unique songwriters, Curtis Whitefinger can carefully choose when to reveal the hooks of his songs and when to play the melodies to their glorious strengths. “Don’t Twist Me”, for example, twists and turns- ticking the boxes of both “anthemic” and “subtle”.
Overall, “27” is a very good album. Somehow, Curtis Whitefinger is able to distinguish himself from much of the now tiresome genre of singer-songwriters without actually being radically different. This is an album of good songs, different emotions and a wealth of stories. “27” is both funny and touching and is a great showcase for a very promising singer, musician and songwriter.
“27″ is available now and Mr.Curtus Whitefinger can be messaged, listened to, viewed and learnt about at: