A strongly memorable debut album from Natural Born Actor, Andrew Robertson Is… embraces a beautiful middle ground between ’70s guitar-driven rock/pop and ’80s synth-laden charms. The project represents the alias of London/Berlin native Andrew Robertson, who cites Bowie as a prominent influence, in addition to guitarists like Jimmy Page, Rich Robinson, Marc Ford, Keith Richards, and beyond. Andrew’s brother Jimmy, a noted sound engineer, also contributed to the album’s mixing and engineering — marking one of many standout guest collaborations on this stellar album.
A melodic, brass-forward invigoration takes hold on opening track “Steve Jobs Song.” The album’s first single features Alex Ward on saxophone, moving seamlessly amidst debonair vocals and bass pulses. Described by Robertson as “an American dream song,” that plays as a surreal depiction of the Apple founder, “Steve Jobs Song” proves commanding in its range between the “Western dream,” invigoration and more contemplative bass-friendly verses, musing on modern ideals and innovation amidst a stylish sound with shades of Psychedelic Furs. “Fearless” follows, conjuring a Scary Monsters-era Bowie disposition in its melding of twangy guitars, spacey synths, and suave vocal adornments. Andrew Robertson Is… doesn’t take long to envelop with its immersive aesthetic and consistently melodic drive.
While the opening one-two punch consumes in its enthused directness, Andrew Robertson Is… also boasts successes in the more subdued folk vein. “Run Forever” eases in with calming acoustics and mellow piano reflections. “Fate will guide your fall,” a poetic lyrical prowess shows, reminiscent of Nick Drake in the lush though artful production. Infusions of synths and electric guitars enter during a catching title-touting refrain, beckoning to “run forever,” with replay-inducing effect. “Perfect Guy” enthralls in a similar tonal realm, pondering the ideals of perfection and humility within a comforting, introspective output. “After the years go by,” multiple vocal layers let out, reminding of Paul McCartney’s moodier pursuits in the vocal inflection and guitar/piano intertwining.
Dreamy guitars and playful synth maneuvers enamor on “Wings,” sounding like a cross between Squeeze’s pop productions and Talk Talk’s vocal captivation. “It doesn’t matter,” marks a particularly magnetic hook, playing alongside booming bass and burgeoning synth brightness; Sean Phillips (Private Agenda) also collaborates on the track. A multitude of talented musicians appear throughout the album, from the multi-instrumental additions of Alex Ward to a plethora of rhythmic forces — including drummer Matt Ingram and percussionists Bakane Seck (Baaba Maal, Jeri Jeri band) and Mizo Gamal (El Dor El Awal). Icelandic virtuoso guitarist Daniel Bödvarsson (Högni, ex-Gus-Gus) also lends his abilities, while Steve Webster (Higamos Higamos) contributes processing and synthesized tambourine.
Another highlight, “Black Water” concludes the album with fervent strides. A fantastic solo from jazz trumpeter Ben Harrison is amongst the production’s highlights, stirring with a nostalgic rock confidence reminding of Foxygen’s revivalist successes. Other notable standouts include twangy folk success “Vermillion” and infectious rocker “Decadent Heart,” both featuring Amelie Hinrichsen on her self-designed PushPull instrument. Showcasing an abundance of quality songwriting, Andrew Robertson Is… is a consistent success from Natural Born Actor.
