Beans on Toast - Knee Deep in Nostalgia (2020)

2020 is a defining moment for Beans On Toast. Not only does Beans hit the milestone of 40, but he also establishes his place as a modern-day folk pioneer in the truest sense, with not one, but two contrasting albums marking the special occasion. A tale of before and after, past vs. present, escapism vs. a gritty reality check. The first offering, Knee Deep in Nostalgia, is a reminiscence of past experiences and memories, whereas The Unforeseeable Future is an honest and resonating social commentary charting the course of the pandemic.

Knee Deep in Nostalgia is a feel-good, full band affair featuring Frank Turner and friends. Starting with the funky disco organ sound of The Village Disco layered with guitar, drums and folk-driven storytelling, with a raucous barn-storming chorus, before heading on to school with Favourite Teacher. There is the pedal steel guitar country homage to Willie Nelson in What Would Willie Do? followed by tales of Australian cousins and Camden Town in the 2000s. Pop ballad Album of the Day proves a highlight, a melodious and heartfelt song about Beans’ relationship with his daughter and their time together dancing to LPs in the living room. His daughter even contributes a line to the end of the track, in a very cute moment.