Tom Marshall – Catch a Falling Star
After a career spanning five decades, during which Tom Marshall made his mark in bands such as Harmony Grass, Liquid Gold and Sparrow, the British musical veteran finally presents his long-awaited solo album “Catch a Falling Star”. This remarkable collection consists of previously unreleased recordings from 1973, created during Marshall’s stay in the Middle East where he performed as a working musician in resorts and hotels. The album represents a fascinating time capsule of a talented songwriter in his creative prime.
Recorded on rudimentary equipment, a TEAC 4-track and a Revox tape recorder, “Catch a Falling Star” proves that technical limitations need not be a barrier to artistic expression. Marshall’s songwriting shows clear influences from the West Coast American sound of that era, blended with the harmony-rich British pop tradition in which he was raised. The tracks are full of beautiful harmonies and jangling guitars influenced by the West Coast American artists of that time, and the 1960s bands he grew up listening to.
Highlights of the album can be found in songs such as “Together” and “Blue Train”, in which Marshall’s gift for melodic compositions and layered harmonies comes fully into its own. “Miracle Friend” demonstrates his ability to transform personal experiences into universally recognisable stories, whilst “Covered In Sunshine and Dust” possesses a melancholic beauty reminiscent of the finest moments of The Beatles’ later work. The production, though basic, has a warm, organic quality that perfectly suits the introspective nature of many compositions.
Critical observations are also warranted. Some tracks, such as “20 Pieces Of Silver”, feel somewhat dated and lack the timeless quality that characterises Marshall’s finest work. The limited production values also become a stumbling block at times, particularly on the more rock-oriented tracks like “Breakdown”, where the dynamics suffer under the technical limitations of the era.
Marshall’s voice, whilst not the strongest in the genre, possesses a sincere vulnerability that perfectly complements the autobiographical nature of many lyrics. His experiences as a touring musician, from working with Brian Epstein to surviving the tragic Bucks Fizz bus crash in 1984, have undoubtedly contributed to the emotional depth of these compositions.
“Catch a Falling Star” is more than merely a collection of lost songs; it is a glimpse into the creative mind of an experienced craftsman at a crucial moment in his career. For lovers of classic British pop and singer-songwriter music from the 1970s, this album offers a valuable addition to their collection. The album succeeds in sounding both nostalgic and timeless, an achievement that speaks to Marshall’s songwriting skills.
Although the album is not revolutionary, it proves that good songs will ultimately always find their way to the public, regardless of how long they must wait. Marshall has delivered a worthy testament to his talent and perseverance in an often ruthless industry with “Catch a Falling Star”. (7/10) (Sunfish Records)
