Folk/Review Al Shalliker - Six White Horses

Al Shalliker is an alt-folk singer-songwriter from the city of Plymouth in England. The lead songwriter for Plymouth band Watershed, who were prolific live performers nationwide over a period of more than 20 years, Al is now producing music as a solo artist. His debut album, ‘Silver Linings’, released in 2021, featured the two singles ‘Where all the Music Comes From’ and ‘The Voyage’.

The second song from Al Shalliker's upcoming album The Diamond Hill, "Six White Horses," is a melancholic ode to the memories and legacies of the past. The song captures a moving sense of gratitude and remembering as it considers the knowledge and direction given by previous generations. The tune, which draws inspiration from vintage composers while being pleasantly original, blends folk and Americana sounds against the backdrop of Shalliker's quiet, reflective vocal delivery.

Additionally featured on "Six White Horses" are Shalliker's lifelong pals Alex McGinnes on harmonica and Tony Davies on bass guitar, whose subtleties give the arrangement depth and complexity. Particularly, the harmonica notes add a hint of nostalgia and a deep, earthy vibe that goes well with the song's introspective mood. This single is a sneak peek into The Diamond Hill, an album that includes a number of previously unheard songs as well as reimaginings of Shalliker's older work from his Watershed days.

"Six White Horses" addresses the common feeling of loving and grieving people who have influenced our lives with its timeless themes and moving performance. Shalliker's lyrics are excellent, providing an opportunity for listeners to reflect on their own ties to the past. In addition to paying respect to the past, this song establishes Shalliker as a musician who is acutely aware of the power of memory and history. The Diamond Hill is going to be a highly anticipated album for those who enjoy deep, soulful folk music.