I recall speaking with Steve Marriner (founding member of Monkey Junk) between sets at a performance with Harry Manx at the very charming Hudson Village Theatre, that was back on April 25, 2019. I asked him how many instruments he was able to play, he seemed uncertain with his reply (perhaps too many to count?). The range of Steve’s musical versatility was obvious even back then, two years ago. Mariner’s ability to play a multitude of instruments certainly came in handy on this his latest solo release featuring 10 new electrifying and emotive tracks. Marriner (playing guitar, bass, harmonica, vocals, drums and piano) enlisted an additional 16 musicians to round out the sound of this distinct offering.
Found on Steve Marriner’s latest solo CD release, Hope Dies Last, are 8 original compositions penned by Marriner himself and two others written by Tom Petty and Prescott Curlywolf. All of the compositions on Hope Dies Last are instantly accessible. Even Marriner’s newer compositions ring recognizable even though for the most part previously unheard and unrecorded. I enjoyed the variety of musical idioms Marriner presented on this his second solo release. If you’re looking for something a bit off the beaten track to listen to, then this latest Steve Marriner CD release is probably just right for you.
