A multifaceted individual, most recognize Gary Kemp as the lead guitarist of the hitmaking New Wave band Spandau Ballet. A good place to be placed, how many realize that not only is Kemp the guitarist of Spandau Ballet, but also a key songwriter in the band responsible for hits like 1980’s “To Cut a Long Story Short,” 1983’s “Gold,” but also the international mega-hit 1983 hit “True?” Also, how many are aware that beyond being a successful musician and songwriter, Kemp has also starred in a long list of films and television series over the last forty-plus years? There are likely only a few out there, but this much is true: Gary Kemp is extremely fascinating.
In more recent years, following the well-received full reunion tour with Spandau Ballet between 2014 and 2015, Kemp has still remained active. In fact, Kemp joined up with Pink Floyd’s Nick Mason in 2018 to play with his newly formed band, Saucerful of Secrets. It was a dream come true for Kemp, who remained a long-time fan of Pink Floyd. It is yet to be determined if Saucerful of Secrets will be doing more touring, but amidst all that, Kemp put out a solo album called Insolo in 2021. At the time, his first solo album since 1995’s Little Bruises, Insolo did exceptionally well, charting highly in the UK and showing many a different side of Kemp outside Spandau Ballet as he handles all vocals himself.
With that in mind, Kemp returns in 2025 with a brand new solo album, This Destination. Released on January 31st through East West Records, it comes in several formats, including digital, a standard CD, a deluxe CD, and a standard vinyl edition. Thirteen tracks are offered in total, and that is if you include the three bonus cuts featured in the deluxe edition, which are well worth the time. Co-produced by Kemp and the accomplished Toby Chapman, it is a colorful and mature collection overflowing with simply memorable melodies.
On this album, Kemp compiles his decades of musical experience as both a writer, performer, and listener to create something introspective and engaging. Coming across as very personal that Kemp let loose from his soul, there is a smooth, inviting sound to songs like “Borrowed Town,” the title track,” as well as “Put Your Head Up.” In truth, you can easily envision many of these songs being a good fit for Spandau Ballet, but with Kemp taking the lead on vocals, there is certainly a different feel. Opposite Spandau Ballet original Vocalist Tony Hadley, who has a sweet, rich baritone singing style, Kemp’s voice is more gravelly and full-bodied, giving the music a more Rock vibe.
This dynamic makes for a very delightful listen where Kemp sings over the top of other dazzling compositions like “Take the Wheel,” “Windswept Street (1978),” and “Work.” Beyond this, there are plenty more well-crafted songs to dig into, and this includes a very differently spun live acoustic edition of “True” if you invest in the deluxe edition.
Overall, Gary Kemp’s This Destination is a body of work that could only have been written by a seasoned songwriter like himself. Heartfelt, emotional, and thoughtful, Cryptic Rock gives this new album 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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