Chris Marksberry – “The Perry Vale Sessions”

Chris Marksberry’s The Perry Vale Sessions is one of the best releases I’ve heard this week so far. Chris, a singer-songwriter based in SE London, has put together his second full-length album with a clear shift toward electric guitar and a rougher, more lively feel.

Across its 11 tracks, the album pulls from rock n roll, folk rock, and blues without making a big show of it. Songs like “Bolt of Lightning”, “Moonshine”, “Razor Love”, and “Mama (What’s Become of Me)” give the record a wide shape, but it still sounds like one connected piece. The writing has a story-driven, biographical side, which gives the songs a personal edge without making them sound overly polished or distant. I also like that the album has a loose, live-room energy. It was recorded at Perry Vale Studios and Lightship 95, and you can sense that these sessions mattered. The playing has character, with piano, Hammond, sax, congas, and drums adding color in the right places. Nothing about it sounds cold or overly planned.

The Perry Vale Sessions is a strong next step for Chris. It has confidence, grit, and enough variety to make you want to spend time with the whole album, not only one track. Follow Chris Marksberry on social media to stay updated on new releases this year.