The title of David Myles’ latest album carries a false air of maudlinism. Like some of the Halifax native’s previous work, it seems to hold an almost clichéd sense of bliss. Such assumptions are torn asunder though, as Turn Time Off takes off in completely the opposite direction. The album opens in the wake of a terminal romance, on the jaded number called "Out Of Love". The song shows a bitter, sadder side of Myles, and it challenges what you think you know about his style. Just as you think the sadness may consume him, the feeling passes and "I’ve been out of love," hooks into "but I’ve been thinking of getting back in." The emotional feeling of this song is very much an example for the rest of the album.
Turn Time Off spans the genres, a feature not uncommon in Myles’ previous work. After all, he’s made his name by exploring jazz, soul, blues, and pop styles, all the while maintaining a sturdy foundation of folk. The difference this time around is the emotional tone. For his fourth effort, Myles has delved into a relatively darker side of life, and the love he’s often written about in optimistic, upbeat ways. Remnants of the past are certainly not hard to find – like on "Need A Break" and "So Far Away" – but his softer, more somber side prevails throughout Turn Time Off.
The heart of the album appears on the stunning title track, which sees a worn-out Myles finally give in and trust again. His signature simple, yet picturesque lyrics accent another highlight song on the fantastically mellow number "Lean Into The Wind". Time is then turned back on, on "I Will Love You", when Myles’s love is finally requited. Turn Time Off is at its best when Myles shakes things up. Swapping the acoustic for an electric guitar here, or ditching it for a turn at the piano there, does wonders for his sound. With a little less of a cabaret sound and a little more pop sensibility, Myles has put together what is probably his best album yet.
MP3 Stream: "Out Of Love"
