Hi friends, now for something different, a few months ago my good friend Nate introduced me to Steve McGrady, an unassuming character, yet incredibly thoughtful, composed and fine tuned into his surroundings and the world at large. Nate is a bass player who also features on this short but sweet EP called ‘Background Noise’ a brief but intricate and intelligent look at people and how they fit in society. We know all about human traits and how people behave, now hear them set to this classy little collection, reminiscent of work by Tom Petty I would say, it has that same feel and tone and execution.
‘I See You’ starts this journey through the human psyche and we acknowledge that we may also possess these frailties, feeling ‘Empty Inside’ and refuelling with a cup of ‘Narcissus Tea’ as thought provoking as it is refreshing. The title track explores the issue of not being heard, a sign of oppression possibly or just laziness, and the can’t be bothered attitude. Steve has approached these difficult topics with a fragile yet strong as steel framework, that will devour even the most fanatical amongst us. Heavy music is not required to send out messages, it can be done with subtlety and a kind but firm hand. A voice that is soothing, assuring with a dash of woe betide apprehension to keep you engaged and attentive.
The fracture of society as a whole and family closer to home needs a huge amount of work to repair the damage, we live in a ‘rinse and repeat’ world. There is almost a child-like innocence that seeps through these songs, but this portrait of life’s ups and downs is serious and committed in its outlook.
It’s time the background noise was played that bit louder for everyone to hear and enjoy.
Azra Pathan
Steve McGrady- Background Noise out now