Soul on West 53rd cover

Soul on West 53rd

Ian Moss · 2009

53 min · 13 tracks · blues

A vibrant blend of blues and soul, rich in emotion and characterized by heartfelt vocals and expressive instrumentation.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Shake — This track opens the album with an infectious groove and showcases Moss's dynamic vocal delivery, setting the tone for the entire record.
  • →
    (I've Got to Use My) Imagination — Moss’s rendition of this classic highlights his ability to infuse new life into well-known songs, blending heartfelt emotion with powerful instrumentation.
  • →
    Let's Stay Together — Moss delivers a soulful interpretation that emphasizes both intimacy and longing, making it a standout moment on the album.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • heartfelt vocal expressions throughout
  • soulful melodies for relaxation
  • for evening gatherings
  • gentle grooves inviting reflection

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking high-energy dance tracks
  • prefer instant gratification songs

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time Ian Moss released Soul on West 53rd in 2009, he was already celebrated for his role as the lead guitarist and vocalist of Cold Chisel. This album marked Moss's return to solo work after a significant hiatus, following his previous album, which had been released nearly a decade earlier. His career at this point was defined by a desire to explore more personal themes through his music.
Stylistic neighbors
Joe Cocker· Gary Moore· John Mayer

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • (I've Got to Use My) Imagination

    The verses shift from hopeful yearning to reflective contemplation about lost love.

    This progression deepens the emotional weight of the song, contrasting aspirations against reality through poignant lyrical imagery.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Shake 3:43
  • 2 Work to Do 3:43
  • 3 (I've Got to Use My) Imagination 5:09
  • 4 Any Day Now 4:08
  • 5 (Ain't That) Good News 3:43
  • 6 Stop on By 3:47
  • 7 Good Times 3:35
  • 8 Hummingbird 5:06
  • 9 Standing in the Shadows of Love 3:23
  • 10 Use Me 4:42
  • 11 I Wrote a Simple Song 4:38
  • 12 Let's Stay Together 4:29
  • 13 What Becomes of the Broken Hearted 3:25

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata