Single review

Shifting Buffalo

Step By Step

added: 15 Jul 2012 // release date: 23 Jul 2012 // label: Shifting Buffalo
reviewer: David Spencer

The man behind Shifting Buffalo, Ben Fuller, lists Crowded House and REM among his influences, and both are evident in this engaging single. Well known on the Essex music scene in the 1990s, Fuller has matured under his new moniker and also since his experience with a writing group that saw the intention of coming up with 20 new songs in a 12-hour non-stop creative session.

That might sound a little clinical, but the process has perhaps helped Fuller hone the art of writing a pop song – and Step By Step is certainly a well-crafted and unashamed pop song. Starting with jangling guitars and Fuller’s slightly downbeat vocal, the track builds to a beautiful guitar solo – something that is now so out of fashion that even flared trousers are more welcome.

Perhaps it is that feeling of nostalgia in the track that appeals. It has charm and warmth as Fuller sings about re-tracing ones steps and not having to be alone. Coming a year after his debut solo album Carpe Diem, baby, it will be interesting to see if Shifting Buffalo can build on this single.

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