Review of Chris Keats’ New Album: “When The Sails Collapse, As Live”

I remember listening to Chris Keats‘ single: “The Real You“. It was a very realistic song and I liked the idea that it was so relatable in everybody’s life and was born out of the day-to-day experience. Creating art that takes a philosophical higher ground and does not intend on bringing relief or stability to the audience seems to miss the objective, but something that shares the vicissitude of a common life becomes a harbinger of hope, an emotional rock to lean on, a timely example to relate to.

Chris has released his new EP: “When the Sails Collapse, As Live“. There are seven songs on the album and all address a theme that is based on experience. It is not a surprise that these songs were recorded over a period of four years.

The album opens with “Live Forever”, which prioritizes various tasks and thoughts that one may have in life. You will hear the chords of guitar carrying the weight of the words, and harmonies making you nod to the essence of what is being conveyed.

“Heart Grows Colder“, as the name suggests, talks about a broken heart that has dealt with an act of betrayal. The song serves as a redressal to the wound.

Incidentally, “The Real You“, previously released as a single, is also included in this EP. The song is 3 minutes and 46 seconds long, and the tempo maintains its poise till 2:34s before Sally Cranham comes in with her silky voice and the guitar breaks out a bit into a bit of passion. The song ends with both of them singing ‘I never felt loved by you‘.

You will hear harmonies in many songs but in “Hostage” you will hear a duet–a female voice adds a rare distinction to the lyrics. The same effect can be heard in the last song “Love is so simple“.

In my mother tongue, Punjabi, the lyrics of a song often contain incidents, happenings, and good advice set to various tunes, and sometimes to beats where you can even dance with the tune of a sad song. I found the same kind of simplicity, practicality, and familiarity in this album, and I am sure the listeners will enjoy the lyrics which lucidly convey the experiences and the reflection of a stable heart.

Wish all the success to Chris!