Callum Beattie – People Like Us

If there’s one thing Edinburgh-raised singer/songwriter Callum Beattie is, it’s honest. His debut album People Like Us is certainly a testament to that. Exploring everything from his childhood to lost love and his complex relationship with his father, the 15-track venture is a deeply personal insight into the musician’s journey thus far.

This isn’t Beattie’s first introduction onto the scene. With two EPs already under his belt, as well as stints supporting Razorlight and The Kooks last year, there’s been talk of an imminent album for quite some time.

People Like Us opens with full gusto with the guitar-driven Mouth of a Tiger, and gradually weaves its way through upbeat tracks and melancholic ballads, which range from toe-tappingly catchy to slightly forgettable and back again.

Some Heroes Don’t Wear Capes is certainly a standout. Written as if speaking directly with his father, it’s a sombre piano-accompanied piece detailing how Beattie understands that his dad – while not perfect – has done the best he can. We Are Stars is another highlight, with a combination of catchy lyrics, commercially-friendly melody and Beattie’s indie-tinged vocals making it a tune that would sound right at home on the radio.

The whistle-backed Therapy and Ghosts in the Dark (which wouldn’t sound out of place on a Keane album) both also deserve honourable mentions, further displaying his ability to effortlessly meander from one emotion to the next.

While this debut isn’t exactly breaking new ground, it’s certainly a solid effort for a first try. There’s surely no doubt there’ll be many who look forward to seeing what Beattie does with his next offering.

Shawna Warmington-Brown

People Like Us is released on 15^th May 2020. For further information or to order the album visit Callum Beattie’s website here.

Watch the video for Some Heroes Don’t Wear Capes here: