Al Richardson returns with new solo single Not As Much – A nod to mod roots and ’90s British guitar sounds

If you were hanging around the Dublin gig circuit in the early 2000s, there’s a good chance you crossed paths with Late City Edition. Fronting the band back then was singer-songwriter Al Richardson - and after some time away from the spotlight, he’s back making music again, this time with a fresh solo focus.

Richardson’s sound has always worn its influences proudly. Think Mod attitude, a healthy love of ’90s British guitar music, and a knack for classic, story-driven songwriting. It’s the kind of mix that comes from years of digging through records and playing stages, and it shows in the character of his new material.

Last year marked the beginning of this new chapter with his debut solo single Man Made, which featured a standout guitar performance from Ocean Colour Scene’s Steve Cradock. He followed that up with The Crossings, a track that picked up radio support from Radio Nova, Dublin City FM, Liffey Sound and beyond.

Now comes the third step in Richardson’s solo run: Not As Much.

The new single leans into the strengths he’s built over the years - those seasoned, distinctive vocals sitting comfortably over warm acoustic textures and thoughtful arrangements. It starts off gently, with a cinematic intro and a heart-on-sleeve vocal carried by keys, organ, bass and drums before gradually opening up into something bigger.

There’s a definite nod to the ’90s guitar era here too. Fans of Bob Dylan might catch a familiar melodic feel in places, but Richardson twists it into his own shape. By the final stretch, sweet, warm-toned guitar lines creep in - complete with a touch of wah-wah - giving the track a subtle Britpop-era glow.

Speaking about the release, Richardson says he’s rediscovered his love for the whole creative process.

I'm really excited to be releasing 'Not As Much'. After being away from music for quite a long time, I've genuinely fallen back in love with the whole process of writing, recording, and releasing songs again - I missed it more than I realised.

Stepping into a solo career was definitely a leap of faith without the usual faces beside me, but it's also opened up new opportunities to collaborate with incredibly talented people. The sound is different now, and that's a positive - it's given me the freedom to explore new styles and directions in my songwriting. It feels like a blank canvas, even if being a solo artist comes with its own challenges. - Richardson

If the first three singles are anything to go by, that blank canvas is already filling up nicely.

The single, Not As Much, is available through all streaming platforms.

Photo Credit: Al Richardson

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