Guadalcanal Diary - Lonely Street

Review by Rodrigo Flández Santos

Lonely Street, the fourth studio album by alternative rock band Guadalcanal Diary, is a reflective and introspective collection of songs that showcases the band's ability to blend catchy melodies with thoughtful lyrics. Released in 1986, the album opens with the upbeat and jangly "Watusi Rodeo," which sets the tone for a record that is both musically diverse and thematically complex.

The standout track on Lonely Street is undoubtedly "Always Saturday," a wistful ballad that explores the universal desire for escapism and the fleeting nature of happiness. Lead singer Murray Attaway's plaintive vocals are perfectly complemented by the band's understated instrumentation, which builds to a soaring climax that is both cathartic and heartrending.

Other highlights include the country-tinged "Sweet Mary," the moody and atmospheric "Pillow Talk," and the propulsive and anthemic "Ghost on the Road." Throughout the album, Guadalcanal Diary demonstrates a mastery of different genres and moods, seamlessly blending elements of rock, country, and folk into a cohesive and engaging whole.

Summary by Rodrigo Flández Santos

Lonely Street is a mature and nuanced album that rewards repeated listens and showcases Guadalcanal Diary's talent for crafting memorable songs that are both musically and lyrically rich. Fans of alternative rock and indie music will find plenty to love here, and newcomers to the band will discover a hidden gem of the 1980s alternative scene.