In Shot of Blue, Tom DiCillo presents a vivid and soulful collection of songs that captures both the mystery and intensity of love. Known primarily as a pioneering filmmaker with works like Johnny Suedeand Living In Oblivion, DiCillo has taken his creative sensibilities to a new level with this album, resulting in a unique blend of rock, surf, and cinematic vibes.
The album opens with “December Sun,” a warm, wistful track that sets the tone for DiCillo’s reflective journey. From the outset, his lead vocals are unmistakable—strong and grounded, they drive each song with a sincerity that’s hard to ignore. The title track, “Shot of Blue,” released as the album’s first single, has a haunting quality that draws you in. With hints of surf guitar and a steady beat, it’s easy to understand why this track has received widespread radio play and over 72,000 views on YouTube. DiCillo’s signature style—both in music and film—is evident, as the lyrics and melodies conjure vivid imagery, almost as if he’s directing a scene through sound.
The standout track, “Waltz,” showcases DiCillo’s ability to capture the intimacy of a quiet moment. Featuring accordionist James Fearnley, known for his work with The Pogues, “Waltz” becomes a delicate yet soulful love song. DiCillo’s vocals and guitar provide a groove that feels modern, yet timeless, and Fearnley’s accordion elevates the track, lending it a touch of melancholy that makes the song feel like a well-kept secret. In the music video, DiCillo takes on directorial duties again, creating a setting where he and Fearnley play to a couple dancing alone, seemingly lost in a world of their own. The imagery complements the song beautifully, adding a layer of romance and mystery that deepens the listener’s experience.
Another highlight is “Falling Into You,” which has a slightly raw edge, reminiscent of DiCillo’s earlier rockabilly influences, and feels authentic and unpolished in the best possible way. This track, along with “Girl In A Million” and “See The Light,” reinforces DiCillo’s approach to the album—a focus on strong beats and a forward momentum that keeps each song fresh and engaging.
While Shot of Blue succeeds in showcasing DiCillo’s cinematic flair, there are moments where the instrumentation can feel a bit heavy-handed, occasionally overpowering his vocals. Tracks like “2BWU” and “All The Lovers In The World,” though rich with sound, might benefit from a bit more restraint to allow DiCillo’s lyrical storytelling to shine through more clearly.
Overall, Shot of Blue is an impressive leap into music for DiCillo, blending genres and moods in a way that feels uniquely him. His dedication to the project over four years is evident in the album’s cohesive feel and polished production. For fans of DiCillo’s films, this album is a fascinating look at the artist’s broader creative range, while for newcomers, it offers a deep, emotional, and visually evocative experience through music.
Jason Hillenburg
