Mr Vincent has many ideas up his velvet sleeves. This latest EP follows the recent ‘Recovered From My Past’ and consists of two original songs that were on the album, but this time we hear acoustic versions and three newly recorded covers. It all started when Steve played ‘Dead Flowers’ the Rolling Stones number, during a studio session. This was the basis for the EP and it soon expanded after an initial three track demo was upgraded. Putting the ‘Ramones’ classic, ‘Poison Heart’ on the set list for the ’Paradise Alley’ (Steves Band) tour this year, gave him the notion, after getting so much positive feedback. This and the other cover ‘Saturday Night’ by those tartan clad popsters ‘The Bay City Rollers’ no less, completes the selection.
The strumming intro to ‘Poison Heart’ and subsequent meandering vocals, would fool you into thinking this was never a ‘Ramones’ composition. Many of us have those brisk New York punk songs, in our heads, when we reminisce. But this opener is near the original in spirit and being Steve’s favourite from the band, it was an easy choice. Dee Dee Ramone and Steve, actually spent time together in the Big Apple discussing many things and this song was one topic of conversation. I did delve into the ‘BCR’ back catalogue to listen to ‘Saturday Night’, as I couldn’t remember it, I was never a fan, truth be told. Surprisingly, it never reached the charts in the UK, despite being written by Phil Coulter and Bill Martin who had also composed ‘Puppet On A String’, ‘Back Home’ and ‘Congratulations’, all major hits. Steve keeps it tight to the 1973 original, but it’s more deep and intricate, with Ben Marsden (Main Grains, Warner E Hodges) on guitar, it’s a decent rendition. Also Mrs Vincent on backing vocals gives it more smoothness. ‘Dead Flowers’ is as seductive as Mick and Keef’s offering, with its easy going chorus and carefree attitude. A song many like to play live these days, Mattias Johannsen of ‘The Trench Dogs’ was given the role of lead guitar. Sublime sound, one of those that will remain fresh for years to come. The first of the acoustic songs ‘Yesterdays Man’ is a touching piece. It’s about past comrades and how relationships can be affected by living in close company for so long, especially with band members. Simple and effective, Steve demonstrates his vocal talent with heightened emotion. The last track and second acoustic is ‘Life Ain’t A Bed Of Roses’ which Steve hollers while retaining that personal feel. A song about the highs and lows we encounter in life, it’s brilliantly done.
Although, I’m a massive admirer of Steve Vincent’s work, I was initially slightly dubious with the choices for ‘Poison Heart’. That is until I played the EP, then they all fitted into place. He has taken songs of ‘The Ramones, ‘The Rolling Stones’ and ‘The Bay City Rollers’, who let’s admit, differ in so many ways and ironed out amazing versions that blend. With the addition of those two stripped back songs, the EP keeps your mind occupied. I like the mix, it shows how Steve, a song writer and lover of a wide range of music, can turn out a simple concept and totally dazzle us.
‘Steve, can turn out a simple concept and totally dazzle us.’
