John A.Walker
Dead End Zurich
reviewed by Gary Levinson
John A.Walker with his latest release Dead End Zurich presents us with a well-developed concept album. This album was influenced by his reading of the books Code Name “Dora”: Memoirs of a Russian Spy, by Sandor Rado, and The Swiss, the Gold and the Dead by Jean Ziegler. It deals with the spy network in Switzerland during the second world war, and the supposed neutrality of the Swiss government.
The songs are intricately woven narratives set to music, with the music going in both the pop and folk direction. The more pop-influenced songs sound somewhat late-60s-like with Beatles Magical Mystery Tour influence, while the folksier numbers reminded me of ballads by Chris de Burgh and Al Stewart.
A worthwhile listen, this album is especially interesting for listeners who want to plunge into this difficult period of Swiss history. Although it is difficult to judge actions taken 60 - 70 years ago in today’s light, this thoughtful album gives us a little nudge to do a bit of re-examination.
Reviewed by Gary Levinson
http://www.cosmos-original-productions.co.uk/music.htm
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