Deacon Blue – The Great Western Road: A Triumphant Return to Their Chart-Topping Best

Review By Glen Parkes

Four decades into their remarkable career, Deacon Blue have delivered a stunning reminder of their enduring brilliance with The Great Western Road. Their tenth studio album debuted at No.3 on the UK Album Charts—their highest chart placing in 34 years—and secured the top spot in the Scottish charts, proving that their music still resonates deeply with fans both old and new.

Celebrating 40 years since Ricky Ross and Dougie Vipond formed the band, The Great Western Road is more than just a nostalgic reflection—it’s a masterclass in refined songwriting, emotional resonance, and melodic craftsmanship. Spanning soaring ballads, shimmering pop, and soulful funk, the album is a rich, emotionally intelligent collection that captures the spirit of a band still exploring new creative peaks.

An Epic Opening That Sets the Tone

The album opens with the title track, “Great Western Road”, a sweeping and cinematic introduction that sets the emotional tone for the record. With Ricky Ross’s poetic lyrics painting vivid imagery of journeys and reminiscence, the track unfolds with lush instrumentation and Lorraine McIntosh’s signature harmonies, imbuing the song with bittersweet beauty. It’s a melancholic yet hopeful reflection on time, memory, and the roads we travel—both literally and metaphorically.

Next is “Late ‘88”, which has already made a significant mark with six weeks on the BBC Radio 2 A-list. This buoyant yet nostalgic track captures the essence of late ‘80s Deacon Blue, blending shimmering pop hooks with wistful lyricism. The song’s infectious groove and Ross’s evocative vocals make it clear why it resonated with radio audiences.

An Album Rooted in Humanity and Soul

“People Come First” offers one of the album’s most striking moments, with its soulful, gospel-tinged arrangement. The emotive vocal interplay between Ross and McIntosh adds a layer of vulnerability, making the song feel both intimate and grand in scale. The track’s uplifting message is a timely reminder of compassion and human connection.

On “Wait on Me”, the band slows things down with a gentle, heart-on-sleeve ballad. The delicate guitar work and McIntosh’s aching harmonies create a stirring atmosphere of longing and devotion, making it a standout for fans of the band’s more tender side.

“Ashore” introduces a subtle folk influence, with its lilting rhythm and wistful melody. The sea-inspired imagery and haunting refrain evoke a yearning for home and belonging, a theme that permeates much of the album.

Moments of Light and Shade

“Underneath the Stars” is a dreamy, atmospheric highlight. Featuring Lorraine McIntosh on lead vocals, the track is ethereal and tender, offering a beautiful shift in perspective. Her velvety, emotive delivery adds a haunting fragility, making it one of the album’s most poignant moments.

The pace picks up with “Up Hope”, a vibrant and optimistic anthem. Its driving rhythm and infectious energy make it an instant foot-tapper, while the lyrics celebrate resilience and defiance in the face of adversity. It’s a refreshing burst of light that balances the album’s more reflective moments.

Radio-Ready Gems and Nostalgic Reflections

Already a radio favourite, “Turn Up Your Radio!” is a joyful pop-rock gem that crackles with catchy melodies and playful lyrics. It’s no surprise the track earned BBC Radio 2’s Record of the Week, as its effervescent energy makes it impossible to resist.

The tender and reflective “How We Remember It” takes listeners down memory lane, with wistful lyrics and gentle instrumentation. It’s a sentimental yet understated ballad that tugs at the heartstrings without feeling overly indulgent.

A Poignant Closing Chapter

As the album nears its conclusion, “Mid Century Modern” offers a lyrical reflection on change and time’s passing, backed by glistening guitars and a driving rhythm. The track’s soul-searching lyrics make it one of the most thought-provoking songs on the record.

“Curve of the Line” brings a subtle, brooding intensity, with its moody arrangement and introspective lyrics. The song’s rich atmosphere and emotive vocals create a mesmerizing soundscape, drawing the listener in completely.

Finally, “If I Lived on My Own” closes the album with a delicate, reflective farewell. The gentle piano and soft vocals leave a lingering sense of melancholy, making it a quietly powerful closer.

Verdict: A Triumphant Celebration of Deacon Blue’s Legacy

With The Great Western Road, Deacon Blue have delivered one of the most powerful and emotionally resonant albums of their career. The record perfectly balances nostalgia with evolution, blending timeless melodies with fresh energy. Ross’s poetic songwriting, McIntosh’s soulful harmonies, and the band’s masterful instrumentation create an album that feels both comfortingly familiar and refreshingly new.

This is Deacon Blue at their finest—an album brimming with grace, wisdom, and emotional intelligence. The Great Western Road is a celebration of life, love, and the roads we travel, and it firmly cements Deacon Blue’s enduring place in the hearts of their listeners.

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