The standout debut album from singer-songwriter Stephen Mugford, Palooza Beach is a wonderfully dynamic success — spanning from the cinematic orchestral intrigue of “People Watching” to the emotive folk within “Not Gonna Let the Devil” and the title track’s rousing rock fervency. The release also features production from John Escobar (Julia Mark), and the talents of Grammy-winning guitarist and arranger Claudio Ragazzi (Something’s Gotta Give, Home Again, Argentina). Captivating across all eight tracks, Palooza Beach shines in its versatile stylishness and jazz-inspired entrancement.
“People Watching” commences the album with debonair immersion, weaving tender guitars and brassy sophistication amidst suave scene-setting vocals. The lyrical references to spy-film notables are apt, given the cinematic-feeling orchestral additions — full of mystique. “For all I knew this random dude, he could be a super secret spy,” the vocals continue, venturing into soulful vocal layers and twinkling keys as the production continues to expand. It represents one of many highlights on the album. Similarly enchanting is “Backside of the Moon,” which plays in the more serene tonal spectrum, with bossa-nova hints in the grooving bass and swelling orchestration; shades of Daryl Hall shows, enjoyably, in the stylish sound.
Another standout, “Not Gonna Let the Devil” showcases Mugford’s strengths in the more folk-forward vein, as well. “The devil won’t win tonight,” a melodic, perseverant vocal quality rings out into flickering acoustic twangs, gentle piano, and heartfelt strings. The ensuing “Wild Things” achieves an infectious ardor in its brighter-day reassurances and twangy guitar delights, while the album’s title track finale excels with a heavier-rocking charisma, seamlessly incorporating bluesy keys and excitable brassy complements into an affirming “I choose the beach!” declaration. Palooza Beach is a consistently melodic, enthusiastic demonstration of high-quality songwriting and memorable productions from Stephen Mugford.
