by Ben Hogwood

What’s the story?

Wolfgang Valbrun is the lead singer of successful UK band ephemerals, who have attracted a worldwide following for their leftfield soul and jazz over the last 12 years. He has also worked with the French band GUTS, but more recently has branched out for his first solo album under his own name.

Working with a band based in Bristol, Valbrun wrote his album as ‘a powerful and introspective look at human frailty’, blurring the lines between soul, jazz and rock.

What’s the music like?

Meaningful, soulful and incredibly assured.

Valbrun is a natural vocalist, and he sings in a way that is immediately identifiable. The lyrics mean a great deal to him, which sounds like an obvious thing to say, but it is amazing how many singers do not always bring this across or get lost in the production. Not in this case.

Songs like Keep Your Head Up, Some Day and Where Is The Peace acknowledge the trials and tribulations of everyday life, in a way that is immediately relatable, but Valbrun’s message is that for his listeners not to give up, to harness their inner strength and to keep persevering. The latter of the three is especially powerful, a protest song questioning Valbrun’s home country of France and their approach to minorities. It does so in a strong yet cogent language.

In the wrong hands this could sound empty, but there is such substance to Valbrun’s singing, and the songs are so well-written, that by the time you’re heading for the closing title track you are suitably enriched. Flawed By Design is a fine closing number, but if anything the preceding Baptist is more powerful, Valbrun’s honesty and vulnerability laid bare.

Does it all work?

It does. Music, lyrics, production – all match up ideally here on a modern soul record to treasure.

Is it recommended?

It is. Wolfgang Valbrun has a voice of real presence, and given the music to match it he should go a long way. Flawed By Design scores highly for being an authentic soul album, one that doesn’t shy away from the problems of the modern world. Instead, by embracing them, Valbrun gives us hope and assurance. Definitely a voice to watch!

For fans of… Eli Reed, Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings, Alabama Shakes, Quantic Soul Orchestra

Listen and Buy

Published post no.2,227 – Tuesday 2 July 2024