Harry Kappen's understated writing is the voice of a man whose life has been one of acute observation of people and whose writing reflects that attention. Good Samaritans has a guitar from the first bars that has a lot of drive, and sets up a song that is more grounded than it initially appears.
Harry has already had a few lives, he has performed in bands throughout the Netherlands, worked as a music therapist for many years and is currently recording in his new home in Mexico. That's the range that comes into play when he performs a song like this with natural weight and warmth, without losing either.
He sings the verses with an even, unforced honesty, with no attempt to make his point. There is a sense of one who believes his story to be true enough to tell it simply, and who lets the melody do the work, instead of resorting to anything dramatic.
The chorus of Good Samaritans brings Danna Gomez in. Her voice makes it more uplifting and anthemic, but never distracts from the song's message. They play together in a relaxed, non-intrusive manner.
A guitar solo is included in the arrangement, and it provides a well-needed break before the song really starts throwing its best. Little things like that show that the songwriter still knows how to shape and pace a song, not just create a hook.
What really shines through in Good Samaritans is the theme itself. Harry doesn't seek out anything glittery or shiny, he focuses on those who do the right thing but never ask to be seen. It's a kind concept for a song and he's a kind songwriter.
I didn't experience this one as all at once, but it stuck with me longer than that one. Good Samaritans is warm, well thought out and well made. Harry Kappen has penned something worth proper listening to.
