Mark Lucas & The Dead Setters – White Man Soul

“This is Mark’s first acoustic album recorded with the aptly named “Dead Setters” (which is really most of his other band “the badhats” without electricity!) Mark co-produced this album with incredibly talented band member Glenn Skarrett. Mark is one of the few songwriters who is able to easily move between a number of different styles and still tell a heart-felt story in every song. Although Australian now, he’s originally from England and has spent some significant. time in the Western US. All of these influences serve him well as a songwriter in his adopted country.” By Bryen Willems 2RRR 88.5FM

CD REVIEW – by John Williams

Mark is an Aussie singer/songwriter who comes to us from England, where he was born and performed in the 70’s, via some time spent in the Western USA.

He has been a respected performer here for many years through Parwill and the Dead Setters. His music shows all the influences of his musical past.
The Dead Setters are a three piece band comprising Mark Oats, Glen Skarratt (who also mixed the CD) and Michael Vidale.

Their sound is a mix of Country, Urban Folk, Western Swing, Bluegrass and Blues.
It’s a great CD and musically, a delight to listen to.
Mark’s lyrics are interesting and relevant.

The CD opens with “When I Call Your Name” which is a bright tune that sets the tone for the rest of the CD.

“Monster’s Ball” is an interesting song which brings the convict/bushranger era into modern times.

Nothing’s changed for society’s battlers in two hundred years.
It has a great chorus.

“Girl on a Motorcycle” is a modern temptation song.
“For Everything Else I Got You” is a love song with a positive bent to it.
I enjoyed it a lot.

“The Emperor of Wyoming’s Blues” is a song about a country boy living in the city and remembering the past joys of country life.
“Dryland Sea” also fits into this genre.
“Canal Road” is another love song with meaningful lyrics.
“Whisky Dents” is a song about a man who is leaving a relationship and ‘movin’ on’.
“Cold Rain and Snow” is a fine rendition of a traditional song.
“Charlie” is a tribute to Charles Perkins and the freedom rides and asks modern day Australians to listen and all move ahead together.

This was my favorite track and is so appropriate to Australia at this time in our history.
“In Truth” is a poignant tune which makes you think.

“Satin and Lace Blues” and “Mansion” round off the CD.

A special mention needs to be made about the CD cover designed by Susanne Mason-Cox.
It is one of the best I have seen for a long time.
I enjoyed this CD and can recommend it.