How Scientists Created Alan Pownall & Why I Love Him

I think I’m in love.

I’ve had a rough time deciding if I wanted to write this entry or not. Blogging isn’t exactly top-rate journalism, but I still like to approach my reviews with an open-minded and objective mind. When the Alan Pownall album finally arrived, I didn’t even consider blogging about it-I knew I was already partial to loving him. After all, he’s good friends with one of my most favorite bands. Now that I’ve listened to this album approximately a million times in the last few weeks, I know…I KNOW that I must share it (with a very tiny audience, sure. But still.).

Say some amazing scientist could figure out a way to mix the less douche-y and uncomplicated parts of John Mayer with the tweaking chillness of Jack Johnson to create the perfect musician. Are you with me? You’d probably get a guy with a great hairstyle and a tweed coat, leaning against a brick wall and strumming a guitar. He’d play the sorts of songs that are two parts toe-tapping and three parts finger snapping. Since he’d be half the amazingness of John Mayer, he’d have far more reach and variation than Jack Johnson. But since he’d also be half the surfer God chic of Jack Johnson, he wouldn’t take himself too seriously, his lines wouldn’t seem as cliché and his vibe would be much less pretentious. He’d be…perfect. He’d be Alan Pownall. Also, he’d be English. Swoon.

True Love Stories, Alan Pownall’s debut album, is filled with songs that make you move. Whether you’re listening to the lamenting “Turn Me Down” and nodding your head in solemn understanding or kicking your feet to “Take Me,” you’re never standing still, never bored. Tom Hobden (Noah & The Whale) makes a couple appearances throughout the album-My favorite on the waltzing “The Others.”

The only time I cringed was on the Jack Johnson-esque “Life Worth Living.” However, just like with Jack’s songs, I can’t help loving it in spite of itself. It makes me swish my hips, beat my head and smile. I think I could have a life worth living with Alan Pownall…or any of his friends, really. How can I not like it?

Still, his two more popular singles: “Chasing Time” & “Colourful Day.” Are both popular for a reason: They’re catchy, fun, and understandable. Why he’s not as popular as his mates from Mumford & Sons is beyond me. I’m certain, though, that it’s only a matter of time.

Despite my making him half-Jack, "True Love Stories" has been getting some serious spinning time in my car. Only a privileged few make into onto my visor and this album is worth it's space.

Definitely take a listen and then buy the goods.

-AD x

PS-As an added bonus, check out Pownall's awesome cover of "Love Lockdown."