Since returning to the singer/songwriter grind in 2016, Peter Astor has made it seem effortless. His graceful melodies show no signs of age, his lyrics have all the wit and wonder he's always exhibited, and the low-key way he has of singing still fits his simple chord changes like a well-worn glove. 2022's Time on Earth changes things up a little bit, adding a gentle bit of trickery to the arrangements. Most of the songs are built around the subtle guitar-bass-drums foundation, but the occasional vintage synth, vibraphone, piano, and drum machine pop up to give the songs some atmosphere. Add in guitarist Neil Scott making full use of reverb and tremolo in subtle fashion and a couple songs (especially the closing "Fine and Dandy") that utilize a full band sound and creep close to Weather Prophets territory, and the result is the most fully realized record he's made since his return. As on his previous album, Astor still sounds haunted by death and sifting through memories of the past, but he's never morose about it. The lightness in his voice and the quiet precision of the music keep things from dragging or getting too moody. There's a lot to be said for a songwriter who can delve deeply into heavy material and make it sound as taxing as a stroll through a leafy glade. Astor has always had that skill and like all his other talents, there's no rust anywhere to be found. From the glimmering ballad "Miracle on the High Street" with its breathtaking vocal harmonies, to the plush, sophisticated pop of "Soft Switch" and the giddily nostalgic "Sixth Form Rock Boys" that comes complete with handclaps, horn section, and tambourine, the album delivers a variety of delights all tied together by Astor's vision and voice. Time on Earth is another in a long line of quietly brilliant albums by a songwriter who never falters and is maybe even getting better with age.
© Tim Sendra /TiVo