The new music novel “Killing Me Softly”, written by Guy Hale, comes complete with a soundtrack, which, if we’re being honest, is what really got us interested in the book in the first place; both of which are pretty damn great!
The record label and author, who lives in the rural area of Worcestershire in the United Kingdom, expresses his vision not only in written form but also through music; the album, which sees Guy team up with Mike Zito and Kid Anderson, is the ideal complement to the book, which is exciting from the very beginning to the very end.
Even though we are writing about the soundtrack, a lot needs to be said about the novel, which tells the story of a made-up man named Jimmy Wayne. Jimmy is not a newcomer to the music industry, but despite this fact, he has gone a significant number of years without having any kind of fortunate break. His big break comes in the shape of a hit, but even this does not come with a smooth ride because Guy has written a passionate story about the things musicians do in their pursuit of glory. Although the typical musician would not take the drastic method that Jimmy does, which is to commit a felony, there is a prevalence of finding difficulty in emerging from the underground.
The soundtrack is comprised of 12 tracks, and the seamless delivery of ‘Vacant Stare’ serves as a fitting introduction to the collection as a whole. The production has an instantly recognisable twang that can be described as American blues rock, and it is impossible to ignore the atmosphere that Mike Zito and Kid Anderson create. The drums are playing an infectious rhythm, and the guitars are ringing out with a vocal delivery from Mike that is gritty and full of attitude!
The song “Rage”, which perfectly captures the essence of Jimmy Wayne, is fierce rock & roll done the proper way, and it bites sharper than the tooth of a viper! The crunch continues with ‘Stairway to Hell,’ which appears at track 10; all of a sudden, we are transported to the Nevada desert, which is where the book is set, and we are immediately subjected to the intense heat!
The last song on the CD, “Cold Winds Blowing”, centres on the overall experience, and as we listen, we reflect on it almost as if we were in Jimmy’s shoes.
Written By Shanade Connor.