Toronto-based singer-songwriter Julian Taylor has been a dynamic force in the Canadian music scene for over two decades, blending soulful Americana, folk, and rhythm and blues. Taylor gained international recognition with his 2020 acoustic album ‘The Ridge,' earning over five million Spotify streams and numerous accolades, including a Canadian Folk Music Award and two Juno nominations. A former member of Staggered Crossing, Taylor’s versatility as a solo artist has seen him release 12 studio albums and perform at major festivals across North America. His songs have been featured in several TV shows, and he continues to captivate audiences with his electrifying live performances.
Julian Taylor’s new album ‘Pathways' is a deeply reflective and genre-spanning collection that showcases his skill as a versatile storyteller and musician. Opening with ‘Weighing Down,' Taylor’s rich, soulful vocals carry a message of resilience and self-compassion, set against gentle, plaintive guitars. “The way that we choose to look at things is an attitude,’ he sings, encouraging positivity throughout this soft, contemplative entry point that sets the emotional tone for the rest of the album. The theme of perseverance continues in ‘Love Letters,' a tender folk song driven by an accordion melody, where Taylor nostalgically celebrates the lost art of handwritten love letters, evoking an era of simpler, more intimate communication.
‘Sixth Line Road' stands out with its bluesy funk, reminiscent of Canadian legend Jeff Healey, with its gritty guitar licks and a moody atmosphere amplified by an ephemeral female vocal and sharp horns. Taylor commands respect through both his lyrics and the unique, infectious energy of the track. On the title track, ‘Pathways,' (featuring Grammy award winning artist Allison Russell) Taylor digs into the complexities of ageing and love with a haunting Americana vibe. The song builds into an anthemic reflection on life’s ever-changing journeys, driven by tender vocals and a swelling instrumental arrangement.
In ‘Running Away' Taylor blends rockabilly with Americana, creating a toe-tapping, high-energy song that echoes the sounds of Elvis, Chris Isaak and ZZ Top. Urgent drums and darker guitars propel the track forward as Taylor questions whether he’s moving on or just escaping. The eclecticism of the album continues with ‘See This Thing Through,' where Taylor channels an atmospheric, 80s-inspired pop-rock sound reminiscent of Peter Gabriel. The song is filled with emotional depth, with its stirring melodies and evocative production underscoring a message of resilience. “Seems like I’ve been out here forever, chasing that dream,” Taylor declares before resolving to stay true to the course and see his journey through.
Closing down the album, ‘Ain’t Life Strange' is a quieter, introspective track with echoes of Mark Knopfler & Dire Straits. Taylor’s bluesy guitar licks and thoughtful lyrics examine the human psyche, offering no easy answers but reflecting on life’s unpredictable nature. “There’s a fine line between a broken and beautiful mind,’ he declares, before saying “if you’re like me, you’re strange!’ Finally, ‘Into the Waves' closes the album with a Beatles-esque vibe, as Taylor evokes the cadence and style of Lennon and McCartney. The song’s haunting, plaintive guitars and introspective lyrics about identity and change create a mesmerising, Bowie-esque feel in its final moments too, really cementing the British influences at play all across this song.
‘Pathways' is a journey through Taylor’s musical influences, from blues and folk to pop-rock and Americana, all wrapped in his distinctive, soulful voice. Each track offers its own reflection on life, love, and growth, making the album a compelling and deeply personal listen whilst remaining relatable enough for the rest of us to delve into and listen as we progress through this journey of life at our own different speeds.
Tracklist: 1. Weighing Down 2. Love Letters 3. Sixth Line Road 4. Pathways 5. Running Away 6. See This Thing Through 7. Ain't Life Strange 8. Into the Waves Record Label: Howling Turtle, Inc Release Date: September 27th Buy ‘Pathways' right here.
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