The Sound of One Hand Clapping - (2016)
The Sound of One Hand Clapping is an album that defies categorization, proudly existing "all over the place and everywhere." Across its massive 22 track list, the album effortlessly pivots from raw, hard-hitting rock to bluesy country, contemplative acoustic numbers, cinematic instrumentals, and psych-rock whimsy. It is a fearless showcase of a songwriter refusing to be boxed into a single genre.
The record opens with its striking track "One Hand Clapping", a raw confessional that dissects the vulnerability and occasional isolation of being an artist. From there, Shawn takes listeners on an unpredictable, cinematic ride. Standout tracks include "Whiskey Guitar Blues," a gritty, soul-baring collaboration featuring the haunting vocal work of J.D. Nash, and the tender ballad "The Best Thing." The song "Old Whiskey and Old Friends" features former Backlash members Ron Prothe on drums and vocals, Chris Nicklay on bass and vocals, a guitar solo by the late Brian McGuire from a previous session, and J.D. Nash on vocals to round out this whiskey soaked sing a long.
Shawn’s sharp-witted commentary on modern society shines in "Zombies Walk Among Us," a driving critique of digital disconnection, while the heavy, theatrical narrative of "Nine O'Clock High" details a clockmaker's tragic descent. The album’s versatility is further highlighted by the hard-rocking, Alice Cooper-esque theatricality of "Sinister Minister" and the delightfully surreal, psychedelic playground of "The Pickle Tree."
The record's final stretch features some of Shawn's most profound writing. "I Just Can't Stop Loving You" is full of heart ache and heart break, fueled by both love and hate. The driving rock of "Animal Behavior" strips away human ego to reveal our primal survival instincts, while the heartbreakingly vulnerable "If I Had A Child" reflects on aging, generational cycles, and missed paths. The album gently winds down with the melancholic storytelling of "A Fine Way To Say Goodbye" before closing with the deeply poignant track "Home." Notably, the lyrics to "Home" were originally written by Shawn’s great-grandfather in the 1940s, serving as a stunning, generational anchor to this massive musical journey.
Complete with evocative instrumentals like "The Sunshine Song," "The Moonlight Song," "Recharge," and the colorful drift of "Rainbow Rain," "The Sound of One Hand Clapping" stands as a monumental testament to independent music production and untamed creative freedom, and the first album of many to come.
"The Sound of One Hand Clapping", Shawn's sonic debut, is available now on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon, and all major streaming platforms.