Album Review: Robert Ellis - The Lights From The Chemical Plant

Ellis' 2011 album, Photographs, caught many an ear with its efficient, emotive songwriting and guitar playing and gave him an international audience. The Lights From The Chemical Plant finds Ellis expanding his repertoire, stepping outside of the constraints of pure Americana to embrace pop elements, diverse country influences and lush production while retaining his incisive way with words and melody. On an album that thrives on atmosphere and emotional gravitas there are surprisingly no weak tracks across its 53 minutes. A bold musical statement from a multi-talented musician matching ambition with results.