SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: GARY KEMP – THIS DESTINATION

GARY KEMP
THIS DESTINATION
EAST WEST RECORDS

Gary Kemp has had a fascinating career and quite frankly continues to surprise even his most ardent fans. He was a principal writer for Spandau Ballet, an actor, and is a member of Nick Mason’s Saucerful Of Secrets band that focuses on performing early Pink Floyd songs. If one thinks they have figured him out, think again, because he continues to surprise and astound. This Destination is his third solo album, and his first since 2021’s Insolo.

This Destination is an incredible album. The very melodic rock songs are expertly executed and arranged. Kemp’s vocals are strong and perfect for the songs he is singing. The album is very guitar based, with beautiful, layered vocals, and stunning harmonies. The opening song, “Borrowed Town”, sets the tone for this personal album about perseverance, struggles and achievements. The song is moody with brilliant lyrics  (“come on, and save me from me”) and some very tasteful guitar. Later, ending side one is the deeply moving “Windswept Street (1978)”.

This Destination is very much a musical and lyrical statement of an artist looking back at his origins while acknowledging that he is far from finished. Kemp has always had the ability to bring the importance of a strong melody and deep lyrics together. He does this throughout This Destination. The album ends with the strong and powerful “I Know Where I’m Going”. A beautiful song that is the perfect end to the set of music. Kemp combines melancholy and strength and the end result is a song that brings the listener in. Again, the melody engages the listener, and Kemp croons the lyrics. And the song packs a forceful punch. It is a masterpiece.

This Destination is a brilliant album. Kemp brings his musical and personal experiences together and produces his strongest and best solo album to date. It is an album that works its way into the listener’s consciousness. Songs like “Work” (which features former The Durutti Column’s John Metcalfe) that is a character study and focuses on the working class struggles. He does it in such an empathic and understanding manner. This sums up the album. Sure, it is Kemp’s story, but it is a story which a great many will be able to identify. And it is told in a majestic and beautiful manner.

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