Slowly but surely making his way up the musical ladder, Seán McGowan is evidence of hard work and perseverance paying off. Doing things the old fashioned way and writing from the heart instead of bowing to what is fashionable and on trend, Southampton’s finest has been rewarded with a deal with the legendary Xtra Mile Recordings and an impassioned and devoted fan base to boot. Does ‘Graft And Grief’ live up to the high expectations that surround it though? You better believe it.

What makes McGowan so special is his transparency. No stone is left unturned. No situation is too excruciating to pull inspiration from. What you see is what you get and ‘Graft And Grief’ is a testament to a talent that deserves all the success that comes its way. With a delicious knack for a turn of phrase and ear for an irresistible hook, Seán writes the sort of music that enters your ear canal and doesn’t leave your brain for weeks on end.

‘No Show’ shimmers with joyous gang chants and brilliantly relatable lyricism while you can feel the grit in your teeth as the dulcet tones of ‘Costa Del Solution’ blast out your speakers. It’s open, it’s honest and most importantly it’s a hell of a lot of fun.

McGowan is a ready-made star in waiting. A hero for the average Joe in an industry that needs a bit of reality blown up its arse, and a gleaming example of what just being yourself can help you achieve. ‘Graft & Grief’ is the start of something huge. To inject this much joy into such a small block of time isn’t something to turn your nose up at, so just imagine how much sunshine is going to beam out of a full-length? The future is bright and its beard is patchy.

4/5

‘Graft And Grief’ EP by Seán McGowan is released on 8th September on Xtra Mile Recordings.

Seán McGowan links: Facebook|Twitter|MusicGlue

Words by Jack Rogers (@JackMRog)