During his career, Ed Tattersall has shared stages with artists such as Olivia Dean, Thomas Headon, Buzzcocks, China Crisis and Billy Lockett. Yet recently he’s undergone a bit of a reinvention. Once working very much in the mainstream, he’s now taking things a little more DIY, writing and producing his own album. It’s through this album that he’s hit my radar and it’s called Chasing Elysium.

By Graeme Smith

Ed has already caught the attention of BBC Three Counties, BBC Somerset and Amazing Radio, but I can’t help but feel that this album is going to open him up to an even wider audience. Chasing Elysium features ten tracks about love, introspection, learning, and seeking to find peace in the present moment.

The album opens with Breakthrough. It’s a moody and groovy start. Looping bass sets a scene before Ed’s soulful vocals come in. His sound walks a fine line between commercial pop and the alternative, mixing accessibility with pleasing challenge. Right from the off this album encourages you to keep listening to find out where it goes.

Roll Back follows and brings with it a sense of intimate introspection. There’s a bite of cynicism in its lyrics that brings to life a difficult moment. We’re Already In Heaven lightens the mood with folksy soft rock. I Wanna Dance With You is a suitably lively number where we get to enjoy the full-blooded passion of Ed’s vocals before True Love Is By Design rounds off the first half of the album with a sultry, timeless highlight.

Lately (For You) slows things right down. Its stripped-back arrangement gives plenty of room for its emotions to percolate, giving us a powerful, heart-breaking story. Can Anybody Help Me is simmering, vibrant blues. Holding On is bittersweet folk rock. In Love Again is delicately philosophical before Coloured In Life closes the album with a moment of catharsis. The slow build to its climax makes it another highlight.

Chasing Elysium is set for release on 27 October 2023.