Kete Bowers, a singer-songwriter hailing from Birkenhead, Merseyside, paints his songs with the colors of life’s trials and tribulations. In 2019, Bowers released his critically acclaimed album “Paper Ships,” a poignant collection of post-industrial northern folk infused with a hue of blues.The album is a testament to Bowers’ resilience and passion for his craft. Even as financial setbacks threatened to derail the recording process, Bowers’ determination prevailed, eventually catching the attention of a Canadian record label and securing Michael Timmins from Cowboy Junkies as the producer.
“Paper Ships” opens with “Northern Town,” a haunting reflection on life in Birkenhead during the late 70s and early 80s. Yet, its themes remain strikingly relevant today. Each song carries an intensely personal resonance, delivered with Bowers’ soul-stirring vocals and Timmins’ expert production. Bowers’ ability to convey profound emotion through his voice is awe-inspiring. Tracks like “A Fine Day To Leave” and “You Stole My Joy” resonate with the raw authenticity akin to filmmakers Ken Loach and Shane Meadows.
The standout track, “Winner,” weaves an emotional narrative that leaves an indelible mark. In just his second album, released nine years after the first, Kete Bowers emerges as a talent deserving of wider recognition. With a bit of fortune and a platform, his exceptional songwriting could resonate with a broader audience. “Paper Ships” stands as a testament to the power of music to convey the deepest wellsprings of human experience.
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