Robert Forster – The Candle and the Flame ( Tapete 2023)

 

The new Robert Forster album is truly excellent. It’s a family affair with his wife, son, and daughter contributing to the music. As always, Robert gives us wonderful lyrics. Here are two that resonate with me:

“Feel changes in my mind

I’m walkin’ to school in ‘69

The next day I’m 35” 

Those words are from the song ”I Don’t Do Drugs I Do Time”. The ephemeral and transient aspects of time always fascinate me. In many ways I still feel like I’m 25 inside. But 60 is quickly approaching. How did time pass so quickly while I still feel so young in mind?

As a schoolboy summer vacation seemed to last forever. Now a year rushes by in the blink of an eye. These thoughts always make me feel melancholy, but not necessarily in a bad way. The self reflection leads to recollection of times, both good and not so great-with some of you out there reading these words-that have helped shape the person I am. I am grateful for those times, and for you, my dear readers.

A second lyric:

“It’s not profound it’s what I found

A scrap of paper in the gutter

I scooped it out I read it loud

WHAT YOU DO-IT MATTERS”

Those lines are from the song “There’s A Reason To Live”. Sometimes we forget how impactful and powerful our words and actions can be to the lives of others. We can uplift and enlighten. However, we can also bruise and confuse, with just a few words or an action or inaction.

Over the years I’ve been blessed to receive handwritten letters and typed emails from people I’ve touched, in meaningful ways, through my radio show and my record store, both from days of yore.

I did those things with love; the love of who I am, and from my love of music. Ever since I was a child I loved sharing music with others. Sharing that music was sharing a part of who I am-a part of my heart. I thank you for being receptive to the music, and most importantly, for accepting me. You’ve uplifted me in profound ways. You may not have known or understood how important you are to me until right now (that includes the people I’ve tagged, and many more of you that I have not; for everyone who has taken the time to read these thoughts has touched me).

Please remember: WHAT YOU DO-IT MATTERS.

Randy  LeMasters.

https://robertforster.bandcamp.com/album/the-candle-and-the-flame

https://www.discogs.com/release/26001805-Robert-Forster-The-Candle-And-The-Flame