Album Review: Terry Carolan — Flights of Fancy
The music of Terry Carolan first came to my attention nearly a decade ago when I encountered a CD reissue of a 1980 self-titled album by his band True Hearts. Some four years later I heard his album Circus of Mirth, credited to Heirs of Fortune. Quite different from that ‘80s music, it was somehow consistent with his earlier work as well, doubling down on Carolan’s knack with melodies of the ear candy variety.
Now he’s back again, this time trading under his given name. Flights of Fancy is filled with chiming, inviting, midtempo pop-rock. All eleven tracks are Carolan originals, and his soaring voice and pop sensibility make Flights of Fancy a consistently enjoyable collection.
Carolan is joined in his musical pursuits by a half dozen or so talented friends, but ultimately the album represents his individual musical vision. The lyrics are heartfelt and personal, yet written in a style that makes them universal in their appeal. And subtle sonic touches like fret-buzzing guitars that suggest sitars are peppered throughout the album. Shimmering acoustic guitars and tight harmonies figure into most of the material. Flights of Fancy is thus recommended.
About the Author
Bill Kopp
With a background in marketing and advertising, Bill Kopp got his professional start writing for Trouser Press. After a stint as Editor-in-chief for a national music magazine, Bill launched Musoscribe in 2009, and has published new content every business day since then (and every single day since 2018). The 4000-plus interviews, essays, and reviews on Musoscribe reflect Bill's keen interest in American musical forms, most notably rock, jazz, and soul. His work features a special emphasis on reissues and vinyl. Bill's work also appears in many other outlets both online and in print. He regularly hosts lecture/discussions on artists and albums of historical importance (including monthly events Music to Your Ears and Music Movie Mondays), and is a frequent guest on music-focused radio programs and podcasts. In Spring 2023 he is co-teaching a history of Rock 'n' Roll at UNC Asheville's College for Seniors. He also researches and authors liner notes for album reissues -- more than 30 to date -- and co-produced a reissue of jazz legend Julian "Cannonball" Adderley's final album. His first book, Reinventing Pink Floyd: From Syd Barrett to The Dark Side of the Moon was published by Rowman & Littlefield in 2018, and in paperback in 2019. His second book, Disturbing the Peace: 415 Records and the Rise of New Wave, was published in 2021 by HoZac Books. His third book, What's the Big Idea: 40 Great Concept Albums will be published in 2024. Read even more about him here.