Album Review: Soley Soley Sacramento by Middle Of The Road
Middle Of The Road’s Soley Soley Sacramento, released in 1971, is a curious blend of Rock, Pop, and Europop that somehow manages to feel both nostalgic and oddly ahead of its time. With styles ranging from Pop Rock to Vocal, this album has an undeniable charm, even if it doesn’t scream "timeless classic." Released under RCA Italiana in Italy and PocztówkI Dźwiękowe E. Daszkowska in Poland, the record carries a distinct European flair, thanks in no small part to the arrangement work of M. E G. Capuano and producer Giacomo Tosti.
The titular tracks, “Soley Soley” and “Sacramento,” are where the album truly shines—or at least where it sticks in your head like gum on a hot sidewalk. “Soley Soley” kicks things off with an infectious energy. The melody bounces along with a carefree vibe, making it hard not to hum along after just one listen. It's catchy as heck, though you might find yourself wondering if there’s more depth beneath the surface. Maybe not, but does it really matter when something sounds this fun?
On the flip side (literally), “Sacramento” slows things down a bit, offering a dreamier, almost cinematic quality. The vocal harmonies here are lush and inviting, pulling you into what feels like a romanticized version of Americana filtered through a European lens. If you close your eyes while listening, you can almost picture sweeping landscapes or maybe even a grainy travelogue film from the '60s. Honestly, it’s kind of weird how well it works.
What makes these two tracks memorable isn’t necessarily their complexity or lyrical genius—it’s their sheer likability. They’re simple yet effective, sticking to your brain like an old TV jingle you never asked for but kinda enjoy anyway. And let’s be real, sometimes music doesn’t need to reinvent the wheel; sometimes it just needs to make you smile.
Reflecting on Soley Soley Sacramento, it’s clear this album wasn’t trying to change the world. Instead, it offered listeners a brief escape—a sunny detour during a turbulent era. Funny enough, hearing it now feels like flipping through someone else’s vacation photos. You weren’t there, but you can still appreciate the colors and vibes. Who knew a Scottish band could nail that Euro-pop sound so effortlessly?
In the end, this record reminds us that music doesn’t always have to take itself too seriously. Sometimes, all we need is a little toe-tapping joy—and maybe a dash of kitsch—to brighten our day. Plus, who wouldn’t want to shout "Soley Soley!" at random moments? Try it. Trust me, it’s oddly satisfying.
