By DJ Monk
It is not uncommon for artists to turn their backs on their past. And it could be argued that the man christened Steven Williams has done just that with this, his second “solo” album since he walked away from the noise of the punk scene and retired to the Norfolk coast. But, it can also be said that the artist better known as Steve Ignorant has not done so, as, despite the largely louche lounge vibe of ‘Don’t Turn Away’, it proves that he has not lost, or sacrificed, any of his fury, spit and vim in a collection of songs that rile and snarl with the passion of an artist growing old disgracefully and not going quietly into that dark night without making his voice, and consequently his message, heard with venomous intent.
Stripped back to its creator’s bare soul, ‘Don’t Turn Away’ is an extremely reflective album, a deeply emotional and personal collection of songs which in turn tear and tug at the listener as we can all identify with the experiences related in the hugely evocative and nuanced lyrics. It is a very poetic album, with Williams by and large and speaking most of the words, such as on the likes of ‘The Right Way’, where his laconic intonation adds to the dramatic effect evoked by the gentle bass backdrop and lilting piano harmony.
There also a wryness of humour, often aimed at himself, which permeates the compassionate eloquence of his lyricism, which in turn draws on a deep well of fellow songsmiths, from Bowie through Dury, Townsend to Bragg and Turner. His punk background shines through in the sense of defiance which he still clearly displays, in the sense that he presented us with a collection of songs which reflect how he feels about himself, us and the world around us, and fuck us if we don’t like it. Fortunately, Williams speaks with a voice that we all share, and equally shares thoughts which we all express on a daily basis, except a lot more eloquently than most of us could ever dream of managing.
Steve Williams is by no means ignorant. He is learned and lucid, and has produced an album which needs to be heard, not only by those of us of a certain generation but by everyone: after all, the experiences of which he speaks lie either behind or ahead of us all.
‘Don’t Turn Away’ is released today (Friday 23 August). You can get your copy HERE.
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