In a landscape teeming with musical experimentation, Loic J Tuckey’s debut album, Beyond The Sun Road, emerges as a singular journey that effortlessly captures the spirit of the American West. Channelling the essence of classic road trips through an eclectic mix of Americana, alternative rock, blues, folk, and ambient lounge jazz, Tuckey’s work stands as a testament to his profound connection to the open road and its boundless horizons.
From its inception, Beyond The Sun Road, is more than just an album; it’s an immersive auditory experience. The 12 tracks on this debut release weave a rich tapestry of mid-20th century rock and R&B, surf, swampy blues, and psychedelia. Each song is a snapshot of Tuckey’s travels, reflecting not just the geography but the very soul of the American landscape. His twangy guitar work and versatile voice—imbued with both traditional blues nuances and a clean, yet gruff quality—drive home the authenticity of this sonic expedition.
Beyond The Sun Road, the titular track is a perfect illustration of Tuckey’s approach. With its relentless driving drums and gritty guitar lines, it embodies the ceaseless movement of the road. The lyrics, penned during actual road trips—scrawled on diner napkins and recorded in motel rooms—offer a window into the fleeting yet impactful moments that define long journeys. Tuckey’s process brings these ephemeral experiences to life with a rawness and immediacy that only firsthand experience can offer.
The album’s creation was as much a journey as the road trips it celebrates. Recorded at Sheffield’s Hatch studio and later mastered at Candyland Studios in Kentucky by Mike Montgomery, Beyond The Sun Road, benefits from a collaboration with talented local musicians like Jim Ghedi and Zebedee Budworth. This synergy of regional talent ensures a polished yet authentic sound that complements Tuckey’s vision, blending local flair with broader musical influences.
Parallel to his musical achievements, Tuckey has delved into the world of literature with his debut novella, Cowboy Butchers. Drawing inspiration from classic Italian westerns and the intriguing Lincolnshire banger, this literary venture showcases his versatility as an artist. His extensive experience in Sheffield’s vibrant music scene over the past 15 years enriches his storytelling, infusing it with a unique blend of cultural and artistic influences.
Beyond The Sun Road, is not just an album; it’s an invitation to join Tuckey on a captivating journey through the American West. The fusion of Americana, indie-folk, swampy blues, and alternative soundscapes creates an innovative and impactful listening experience that stands out in today’s musical landscape. For those who cherish the nuances of a great road trip—its spontaneity, its moments of reflection, and its unspoken stories—Tuckey’s debut offers a soundtrack that’s both evocative and deeply personal.
Listen to, Beyond The Sun Road, and let Loic J Tuckey’s immersive storytelling and genre-blending artistry transport you to a place where every road has a story and every mile is a new adventure.
