Marc Platt's "Golden" Reflections

If you're a regular reader of this blog, you've no doubt come across my previous posts regarding the superb work of singer-songwriter Marc Platt. He's released some terrific albums in the last couple of years, including Dis Time It's Poisonal and Colors of The Universe. He's back with The Golden Ticket, the follow up to this past April's That Midlife Thing, and like that excellent record, this latest album finds him in a reflective mood. While That Midlife Thing featured Platt's ruminations on middle-aged men and the emotional territory we all navigate these days, The Golden Ticket widens its focus to take a look at the state of the world we live in, and how that world has changed in the last few years.

Tracks like "The Fighting Americans" and "Banana Republic" deftly examine the current political and ethical landscape. We are living in a much different world right now, and the insightful commentary contained in these observational songs really hits home. Whatever side of the fence you're on, you can't deny the feelings these tracks will stir up in you. It's refreshing to see an artist as accomplished as Platt put himself out there on songs like these, which aren't the last bit preachy, but definitely get their point across.

While Platt takes a look at some weighty issues on The Golden Ticket, he hasn't forgotten about the type of music that's his forte. The album also includes several of the thoughtful songs about love and relationships that are the hallmarks of his best work. Give a listen to exquisite selections such as "All My Life," and "When Love Has Gone Wrong." Those tracks, and the evocative "Extraordinary" and "Watching You Sleep," are expressive, powerful songs that deftly examine the complex nature of modern relationships. These poignant songs will touch your heart and infuse themselves into your spirit. For Marc Platt, there's always a ray of light, even in the darkest moments.

 

The Golden Ticket closes with the Dylan-esque, folk-inflected "God Owes Us Nothin," which in my opinion, is one of the best songs Platt has written to date. Like many of the tunes in his oeuvre, it has a definite 1960's vibe, but still manages to sound fresh and up to date. As usual, Platt's vocals and guitar work are top notch, and he's also done a masterful job producing the album. The Golden Ticket is a great record, and like Marc Platt's previous work, absolutely deserves your time and attention. Check out the tracks on the album at https://marcplatt.bandcamp.com/. Here's a link to the video for "Dark Side," the opening track of the album: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iXaf2pDqBno.