Singer, guitarist, and songwriter Razvan Albu has released his highly anticipated new album, ‘Labour of Love’, a gorgeous new record that arrives as his most ambitious project to date. Available now, the new album is a culmination of 1.5 years of dedicated work, delivering a unique blend of rock, country and blues, that perfectly showcases Razvan's musical evolution.
Recorded across the UK, Germany, and Romania, 'Labour of Love' features ten original tracks, eight penned by Razvan himself and two by his long-time collaborator Jason Falloon, renowned for his work with Queen's Roger Taylor. The album’s title, the artist explains, is a reflection of his deep passion for music, as well as a celebration of the birth of his daughter, Mara.
Razvan adopted a collaborative approach for this album, granting Jason a more active role beyond guitar playing. It was a decision that Jason ran with, co-producing and mixing the album, contributing co-lead vocals on 'Timeline' and providing backing vocals on several other tracks. The album also features a stellar rhythm section with Martin Hofbauer on bass and Martin Hauser on drums, along with some surprise guest appearances, including saxophonist Pit Widmer, known for his work with Simply Red.
The album's sound is described as "old-school", with all instruments played and mic'd, devoid of any programmed parts or synthesizers. This organic approach resonated with Grammy award-winning mastering engineer Brad Blackwood, who praised the album's sound during mastering.
'Timeline', a duet with Jason, showcases a raw and natural vocal performance that Razvan insisted on keeping despite Jason's initial reservations. Another standout track, 'Land Right on My Feet', Razvan's most country-influenced song to date, evokes his time in the US and the feeling of open highways. The recording process even involved capturing the ambient sound of a London pub, as he remarked, “I remember crossing the street to my neighbourhood London pub, with my laptop and microphone to capture the ambient sound of the bar - amazing how nobody found it odd that a random guy would walk around the bar tables with a ribbon mic plugged in!”
The lead single, 'What's In It For Me?', has instantly become a firm favourite, opening with an acoustic Americana vibe, gradually building into an anthemic modern rocker. The lyrics offer a series of anecdotes about self-interested individuals, adding a layer of social commentary to the album.
'Labour of Love' is more than just another album; it's a testament to Razvan's musical journey, his dedication to his craft, and the significant personal milestones that have shaped his life. With its transatlantic blend of rock, country, and blues, and its raw, organic sound, the album is poised to captivate audiences and solidify Razvan's position as a versatile and accomplished musician.
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