Album Review: Taylor Locke 'Time Stands Still'

Courtesy Lojinx

Regardless of genre, good music is good music, and Taylor Locke’s latest, Time Stands Still, which was released on February 23rd, is just that: a record you shouldn’t let pass by your ears. 

Time Stands Still is the first solo offering from the ex-Rooney guitarist and vocalist and despite its title, the record is "a testament to creative momentum and personal growth." Locke deals with the themes of love, heartache, and nostalgia in well-constructed, honest songs whose lyrics are detailed, emotional, introspective and yes, relatable. Sonically, the record blends various genres into an appealing, almost timeless listen.

Smart lyrics and a melody, simultaneously sad and uplifting, are combined in lead track “Burbank Woman" about a demise of a relationship. “Deep in her heart there was a valley and no free way to get there/Never mind the miles and my persistence/She was gonna keep me at a distance.”

With its acoustic introduction and light 80's pop feel “The Game” compares (the end) of a relationship to a game of cards. "She would be my queen of hearts I would be her ace/We had all the luck two people need but she didn’t know to take, take a chance on me/She's giving me the game now, leaving while she's up and I'm doubling down."

Personal favorite “So Long” is just a massively infectious tune that you'll have on repeat. "You're keeping me waiting while you're hesitating for so long (so long)/Why would you wanna resist/You better be quick or you'll miss it/Never forget it you're gonna regret it for so long.” While the harmonies and thumping drum beat in “Running Away From Love” (about just that) convey the need for independence. “I wanna be free to do what I need to do changing with the wind.”

In “Don’t Be A Stranger,” with its crunchy guitar solo, he questions why a relationship ended and wonders if they can begin again. "Maybe I was young and crazy chasing all my demons down/But I still believe that you could save me, can we just start over now/Just start over now."

“Time Stands Still” and "Going Going Gone" both reflect on youthful stardom. The former is sparse and folk-like, sad and hopeful “It's a late in the game for fanning the flame, the wind is gonna blow it out anyway” while the latter takes a more melodically breezy approach. "Time moves on but the dream keeps going/I'm one step behind it/I don't really mind."  

“Call Me Kuchu,” a 100% rock number, the post-breakup how to "The Art of Moving On" and the thoughtful, interestingly arranged "No Dice" round out the record. 

Taylor Locke's Time Stands Still is definitely a different album for this site to review, but one that is well on its way to being one of my favorites of the year so far. Quite simply, if you appreciate well written songs, catchy hooks and somber melodies, then keep an open mind (and ears) and pick up Time Stands Still.

Purchase Time Stands Still here

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