Ben Poole: Post Midnight Behaviour Review

Ben Poole returns with Post-Midnight Behaviour, his first studio album of new material in eight years. Released after 2018’s Anytime You Need Me, the album finds the British guitarist, singer and songwriter revisiting his blues rock roots while exploring a broader range of influences.

Poole has spent much of his career building a name within the blues rock scene developing an extensive international touring career. With more than a decade of albums and live releases behind him, he has also performed extensively across Europe and beyond, establishing himself as a seasoned live performer as well as a respected guitarist.

Post-Midnight Behaviour establishes its broader approach from the opening moments of “No Second Chances.” Built around rugged riffs, the song settles into softer verses where Poole’s voice takes on an almost alternative rock character, giving the track a different kind of catchiness before the heavier chorus arrives. It is a good opener, further elevated by some tasteful lead guitar.

“Empty” follows with a breezier alternative-rock feel and subtle country touches, while another melodic guitar solo adds plenty of character. On the other hand, “Time Has No Mercy” brings back a more traditional blues rock approach, albeit with a pop-punk edge, while its strong chorus gives the song plenty of melodic appeal. The track also features another excellent solo, this time favoring attack over melody.

“Runaway Souls,” featuring Elles Bailey and Oli Brown, is the album’s standout. Its spirited blues rock arrangement combines a great riff, a countrified touch, and stellar vocals. The chorus is particularly effective, and the guitar solo strikes a fine balance between melodic phrasing and sheer fireworks.

“Searching” takes things down a notch with a soulful, late-night atmosphere, sultry vocals, and an elegant, almost jazzy guitar break. It fits the album’s nocturnal character particularly well. “Start Of The End” closes the record with another rocker that has a ballad-like quality, providing a strong finish.

From a technical standpoint, the production is clear and well balanced, retaining plenty of punch without sounding overly polished. Poole and the band deliver confident performances throughout, and the mix does a good job of preserving the character and dynamics of the playing.

Overall, Post-Midnight Behaviour remains firmly rooted in blues rock while moving comfortably between alternative rock, soul, funk and pop, giving the album a varied and engaging character. There is a relaxed confidence to the record that suits its late-night atmosphere, with Poole’s guitar never needing to dominate the mix to make its presence felt. It is a strong return that rewards repeated listens without ever sounding overdone.

The Review 8/10

Can’t Miss Tracks

– No Second Chances
– Empty
– Time Has No Mercy
– Searching
– Runaway Souls

The Big Hit

– Runaway Souls