Album Review: Jamie Webster - We Get By

The long-awaited album We Get By is finally here and it’s a stunner. The Liverpudlian artist perfectly captures his worldview across an album that is anthemic and ambitious. 

Opening track ‘Down the Road’ is energetic and distinctive, immediately highlighting Webster’s ability to craft tracks that feel simultaneously classic and modern.  ‘Stop Living Blind’ and ‘Somethings Gotta Give’ offer a more mellow and laid back side to Webster, illustrating the range of the project. They are heartfelt, reflective and offer Webster’s view on the current state of the world.

As We Get By enters its middle section, there is a thematic shift to more serious issues. ‘The Joker’ tells a story of loss, with the lyrical content being placed front-and-centre, and only simple accompanying guitar instrumentation. Stand out track ‘Out On The Streets’ is evocative and passionate call for a ‘solution’ to homelessness, demonstrating how Webster is admirably using his new-found fame to improve society. The messages of his songs are raw and vital, as each track clearly has a purpose and there are no filler moments. 

Title track ‘We Get By’ is upbeat and leaves the album on a high. The message of hope is an important one that should resonate with everyone who is struggling through these strange times.

Words: Amelia Dinsdale