the music
right on the edge (2025)
Many people are 'right on the edge' now. The title track of the album shows someone under pressure, trying to survive in an increasingly hostile world. Whether it is from an imminent danger on the streets, a crisis in life, an extreme weather event or relationship breakdown. The two rock instrumentals that are 'moody/noir', are inspired by Michael Caine's film 'The Ipcress file'. The final rock instrumental recalls haunting themes in James Herbert novels.
MERSEYBEATUP
This album takes me back to where I started, sitting on a Vox AC30 amplifier, listening to beat group "The Beatcats" rehearsing sometime between 1960 to 1963. Growing up in the beat group era had a strong influence on my music. MerseyBeatUps's retro feel captures the raw quality of a period when strong composition was foremost.
Horses Fire & Steam
‘Horses, Fire & Steam’ is a social history in songs, written in the manner of a medieval book of gestes. It charts the English social scene from its early 20th century rural roots through two world wars, post war austerity Britain, followed by the explosion of the rock and roll era.
Priory knight
Priory Knight’ was composed for Paul’s 1996 performance at Birkenhead’s 12th-century Priory during the Wirral International Guitar Festival. The title track recalls Edward I’s visit to the Priory en route to Scotland. ‘It’s Always Been the Same’ reflects on chivalry, love, and the folly of war. ‘Jack the Cat’ pays tribute to a mysterious black cat and a secret grave. ‘Scriptorium Shadows’ evokes local legend, imagining monks hiding gold beneath the Priory. Blending storytelling with classical and lute-style compositions, the album showcases Paul’s training and passion for early music, weaving history, myth, and emotion into each piece.
pipesmoke & powderkegs
This album is another in the genre of what I call my ‘Medieval English, Folk Rock style' Like ‘Horses Fire and Steam', ‘Priory Knight' and ‘Saracen Dance', it is influenced by Gryphon, Amazing Blondel, David Munrow, Steeleye Span, Fairport Convention, and Jethro Tull.
saracen dance
This is a collection of ‘lute' style pieces played on guitar. The lute is so quiet and tricky to tune it seemed practical to use the more robust guitar which would be suitable for live performance. The overall feel is of 17th century England with its ribald humour and rapier like wit, both hinted at in the titles of the pieces.