Joshua Radin – Onwards and Sideways

American folk artist and songwriter Joshua Radin has released his sixth studio album Onward and Sideways, perhaps his strongest and most heart-warming collection to date. With many of the songs written in his bed and featuring a collaboration with country star Sheryl Crow, Radin’s new musical offering takes listeners on a wonderful journey of peace and self discovery.

The opening track We’ll Keep Running Forever catapults listeners into Radin’s sublime songwriting abilities and his tranquil voice is tantalising. With a great mix of intensity and passion, it starts the collection in the best way possible.

What stands out the most is his lyrical genius and how every song paints a beautiful picture in the listener’s mind. In songs such as Let Our Sun Shine Down and Blow Away, it is difficult to fault the seemingly effortless work he produces. As an artist, Radin is certainly gifted in telling a story and you definitely get that with this piece.

However, at times, the whole album doesn’t seem to progress. Whilst each song is superbly written and emotive, a lot of the tracks seem remarkably similar. Radin seems to have fitted neatly into his niche and whether this is a success or not is entirely up to the audience’s individual taste. One cannot doubt that his voice and abilities suit this genre of music and style brilliantly, even if it can become a touch too repetitive.

Nonetheless, this is a fine piece of art that thrusts Radin into the spotlight with its awe and exquisiteness. The standout song Worlds Apart is simply stunning and moving as he sings beautifully over the piano chimes with lyrics that are his most splendid to date. His collaboration with Sheryl Crow is also a remarkable piece as they complement each other perfectly and produce a track worthy of praise and admiration. All in all, Radin has constructed a dazzling a quality of music that is a pleasure to listen to.

Lauren Shean

Onward and Sideways was released on 6^th January 2015, for further information or to order the album visit here.

Watch the video for We’ll Keep Running Forever here: