Jim Kirkpatrick - Ballad of a Prodigal Son (2020)

Jim Kirkpatrick has been lead guitarist and co-writer of some of the biggest radio hits for legendary British classic rock band FM since 2008 whilst also becoming an in demand session player, for his slide, blues and rock guitar playing. However, he has now decided to re-start a solo career that began with the 2006 debut album ‘Changed Priorities’, with the release this September of his second album, ‘Ballad Of A Prodigal Son’.

Finding the time to record the album took some organisation, as he juggled his FM touring commitments playing at some of the worlds biggest rock festivals and supporting names such as Journey, Foreigner, Kiss, Whitesnake, Heart and Thin Lizzy in addition to other recording and touring commitments.

The title track is the first release from the album and it’s a driving blues rock track that plays to Kirkpatrick’s strengths showcasing his guitar playing, but also showing what a great voice he has. The track is semi-autobiographical about him returning to solo work after such a long time and despite his previous album, this is his very first solo single and it sounds like he’s really enjoying the freedom he’s allowed. With a screaming solo added for good measure, this sounds like a statement of intent.