Album Review: Daniel Hertzov - Believing (Red Cat Productions)

There is little on BELIEVING, other than the name Hertzov possibly, that indicates this singer-songwriter originates from Moscow. Having lived in the USA for the best part of his life, Daniel has crafted his musical endeavours whilst listening to rock music in Boston. Eventually moving to the UK where he now lives and works, in Glasgow to be precise, the songwriter has gone on to produce a memorable debut, containing a dozen well-crafted and melodic songs.

Equally at home with sensitive balladry (Trust the River, 6 Years) and grungy rock (Down at the Park, Saviour), Hertzov crafts his songs with a distinctly Americana feel. Both mandolin-led Tumbling Down and Away and Shelter offer a lighter approach to Daniel's songwriting, the latter celebrating the fact that when the chips are down, the music survives.

Whilst Jewish Bride may be seen as the single throw away song on the album, it does offer a taste of Hertzov's wry sense of humour, Tymon Tymanski's scat vocals as well as a nod to Hertzov's Jewish roots; sensibly placed at the end of the track listing.

With contributions from Marcin Galazka on guitars, Alan Scobie on keyboards and percussion, Craig Strain and Tymon Tymanski on bass and Fraser West on drums, Daniel Hertzov has delivered a thoroughly engaging debut.

Allan Wilkinson
Northern Sky