J.P., CHRISSIE & THE FAIRGROUND BOYS

FIDELITY!

2010-10-01

The back story on this disc is that it chronicles the relationship that Chrissie Hynde of Pretenders fame and Welsh Singer/songwriter JP Jones started only to realize that it was not meant to be because of their nearly 30 year age difference. "Australia" kicks off the relationship with a chance meeting in a bar. From there, the couple falls in deep, "Your Fairground", "Misty Valleys", "Fidelity" and "If You Let Me" before reality sets in, "Perfect Lover", then rail at the unfairness of the timing of their meeting, "Leave Me If You Must", and ultimately struggle with the anguish of having to let go, "Meanwhile" and "Never Drink Again". Yet, despite having completed the emotional cycle they find a way to move forward together, "Courage". Unlike other breakup discs, such as Fleetwood Mac’s Rumors, the couple’s anger is not directed towards each other but at the circumstances that keep them continually drawn towards a relationship they know they cannot fulfill. Since most rock discs typically look at life through the “hope I die before I get old” lens, it is almost unnerving to hear 59 year old Hynde expressing such anguish over the loss at another shot at love. Unlike her work with the Pretenders, Hynde keeps her trademark snarl in check and delivers nuanced vocals that are amongst some of the best of her long and storied career. And, wouldn’t you know it, they meld perfectly with Jones’ raspy growl! Musically, Hynde, Jones and the Fairground Boys add urgency to the raw emotions with mid-tempo rockers that are well crafted enough that they make a decent listen even if you aren’t drawn into the storyline. Smitty