Here’s a brilliantly melodic song from Scarborough singer-songwriter Phil Hooley. “The Veteran’s Song” wasn’t selected for inclusion on Hooley’s last album, 2023’s “Provenance” because it didn’t quite fit with the spare, acoustic nature of that collection. Initially, the songs had been recorded with a more full and layered sound. However, Hooley and his producer Justin Johnson decided to strip everything back to really focus on the heart of the songs. The video lets us into the recording session for “The Veteran’s Song”, engineered by Chris Jones at Beckview Studios in Scarborough. Hooley explains: “We recorded this video live in the studio, apart from the piano overdubs, but for some reason we put it to one side as it didn’t quite fit with the more acoustic feel of the album. Strangely, songs sometimes sound so much better or so much worse when you revisit them don’t they?”
That mesmerising double bass is supplied by Pete Norman, while Adam Carpenter delivers flowing keys. Andy Gamble produces an outstanding guitar solo that grows from and out of the song’s gorgeous tunefulness. The group lift Hooley’s vocals with hymn-like backing; as ever, Hooley’s voice is warm and welcoming, full of heart and character.
This emotionally powerful recording of “The Veteran’s Song” is finally going to be available for streaming and downloading. Hooley says: “I’m releasing this version on Bandcamp, just to add my small voice of protest against the madness of conflict.” Superb songwriting enhanced by a mellow vocal. Check it out.
