70 years and still smashing it! David Feehan is a veteran of the Wellington scene. He had a vinyl release (‘Ballade’) on the Jayrem label back in the ‘80s that ticked over quite nicely. A performer for over six decades, he has sung in various choirs and still teaches vocals. With a full band plus best backing singers this album of his own (plus requests) live favourites is such a celebration, released under his own Tapestry Music badge. 

Moving On – composed by Rod Argent from the Zombies opens proceedings. Farther On Up The Road, first recorded by Bobby Bland back in 1958, is the next in line. First among the album’s five original songs is Lonely Tonight, a co-write tackling the subject of homelessness in NZ that brings the tempo back, the horns forward and the emotions up. Goin’ Back is a magic Gerry Goffin/Carole King number, sung in an emotive duet with the fine-voiced Jamie Musuva. Conversations, written with Moray Bevan, is about having complete communications in conversations and is more focused on Feehan’s vocals. It has a ‘70s jazz-pop feel, and suitably sits next to a worthy version of Kid Charlemagne – Feehan paying respect to the enduring inspiration provided by Steely Dan in his own career. 

And so on! Another tidy Zombies tribute, some Bee Gees, more co-written originals and the 14-tracks finishing on a loving note with Waiting In Vain by the one and only Bob Marley. This is a romantic ver-shun y’all!

A nice set that pays tribute without plundering others’ arrangements, rounding up David Feehan’s career as a performer, teacher, writer, inspiration and music lover.