Peter Bruntnell - Nos Da Comrade: cult songwriter returns to form

Nos Da Comrade
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Artist: Peter Bruntnell
Genre: Alternative
Label: Domestico Records

It seems any creative person edging towards their 60s and corralled into the “critics’ favourite” enclosure is destined for cult status.

UK songwriter Peter Bruntnell has been plying his exceptionally fruitful trade for more than 20 years, fusing (and playing with) pop, rock, powerpop, country rock, psych-folk and Americana – all to little commercial avail, it must be said.

Not that we should worry, for the man's 10th studio album is arguably his best since 1999's signature release, Normal for Bridgewater.

Back on relatively familiar Americana-powerpop turf, superlative songs (co-written with Canadian songwriter Bill Ritchie) such as the Trump-berating Mr Sunshine and the teardrop-gorgeous Caroline prove yet again that – cult status or not – Bruntnell is up there with the very best.

Tony Clayton-Lea

Tony Clayton-Lea

Tony Clayton-Lea is a contributor to The Irish Times specialising in popular culture