Album Review: John Butler Tin Shed Tales

John Butler proves that it doesn't matter which trio he is a part of, his passion and talent is unquestionable as he bears his soul in his new solo acoustic album Tin Shed Tales. Recorded during his Australian solo tour earlier this year, the album mixes his most established hits with new material and is interspersed with conversations as Butler regales the crowds with anecdotes that inspired his famous lyrics.  

Split between two discs, it's Butler's crowd interaction that make this album so special and a must have for diehard fans. His insight will have you reading further into the meaning behind songs like Better Than and Losing You, and gives him a platform to push his political opinions about gas mining in WA when introducing new track Kimberley.

Mastering a wide range of instruments, his effortless guitar playing in particular would leave some of the greats in awe. A definite highlight is his solo rendition of Revolution, using a vocal loop pedal to give the track a whole new dimension as he calls for social change. Nestled amongst favourites are some surprising inclusions such as his cover of Danny Boy – a unique and haunting interpretation of the folk classic.

Stripped back John Butler has just reaffirmed that he's one of the great blues and roots artists of our time. For those who have been following his career since the beginning, the album ends with his longest running project Ocean and the version included here is hauntingly beautiful, taking you on a journey that leaves you wanting more at the end of the 12 minutes. In short it's simply blues and roots as it should be.