Martyn Cuthbert is a songwriter and musician from Kilmarnock, Scotland whose sound ranges from hard rock to raw acoustic. He’s just come to my attention thanks to his latest songbook which showcases the latter.

By Graeme Smith

The Book of Songs is Martyn letting his lyrics to do the talking as he delves into personal themes like his thoughts and insecurities.

Though the collection leans acoustic, we don’t lose any of Martyn’s rock spirit, and you can hear his influences in the compositions. Greats like Nirvana, Oasis and Manic Street Preachers all inform his sound, and fans of those artists will find a lot to love about his music.

The EP opens with The Ballad of Ravey Jones and we are immediately treated to his ability to spin a yarn. Heavy acoustic folk rock sets the atmosphere while charismatic vocals tell a cautionary tale of one of society’s dropouts, bringing the character vividly to life.

Time Machine follows with a softer and dreamier story. It invites the listener to contemplate what they’d do differently, but ultimately delivers the message that living with regret is a life only half-lived.

Eyes on the Prize ups the pace with a fiery and jangly moment that’s full of self-doubt. Red Hair is a poetic number that is both gentle and biting. Scarecrows rounds off the collection with a piano led meditation that is rich with imagery and metaphor. It’s the perfect finish.

Based on the evidence of his new EP, Martyn Cuthbert is a songwriter first and foremost. The EP’s five tracks are rich with storytelling, and hang together nicely. Alongside the song writing prowess on display is some well-crafted and reassuringly familiar indie rock, and expressive vocals that bring his lyrics to life.

The Book of Songs was performed and produced by Martyn Cuthbert. You can find it in all the usual places and can check it out below.