It is always good to hear Josh Atkinson singing one of his own songs again.
I have recently seen him playing and singing alongside other artists, which he does brilliantly, but there is something different about hearing an artist step forward with their own material and delivery.
‘Won’t Take Me Today’, due for release on Friday 25th September, is Josh’s first release for some time and, hopefully, the beginning of a longer run of new music. From its opening twangy guitars, the track settles quickly into a distinctly 1960s and early 1970s sound. There are clear Beatles influences, although Josh’s vocal brings Julian Lennon to mind more readily than John in places; echoes of The Lemon Twigs also sit comfortably alongside a touch of the lo-fi warmth of Smith Westerns.
The melody is light and easy, with harmonies appearing now and again, creating the fuller, rounded sound associated with the best pop-rock and sunshine pop of those earlier decades. Carefully used echo adds depth and movement without making the production feel overworked, allowing track nostalgia to come through naturally.
And that warmth creates an interesting contrast with the uncertainty beneath the lyrics. ‘Won’t Take Me Today’ could be interpreted as a love song, particularly through lines such as “can’t take this love”, but there is enough space within it for other meanings too. It could equally be a quiet appeal to something beyond us, or the familiar to and fro of a conversation with our own mind. Either way, there is a sense of knowing we have been here before and that, however difficult the moment may feel, it will eventually pass. “So I’ll dream of better days, until something real takes its place” and “while my mind in some other state” capture that desire to escape, while still holding onto the possibility that better days will come. Josh leaves the interpretation open, allowing listeners to take whatever they need from it; emotional support, reassurance or perhaps a low-key mantra for those days when life has not quite gone to plan.
Midway through, a heavier electric guitar section introduces the distinctive Josh Atkinson stamp that those familiar with his work will recognise. It adds weight and momentum, pushing the track forward without straining against the lighter melody around it. And the closing guitar section and outro provide a fittingly nostalgic finish, carrying the song out with the same ease with which it began.
‘Won’t Take Me Today’ feels built for driving, hearing live and finding yourself humming without quite realising it has hunkered down in your head. It is a welcome return from Josh and a strong reminder of what he brings when the song, voice and guitar are entirely his own.
21st September 2026