Steve Larkman Music Review: A Blues-Rock Journey Through Heartbreak in Blue Money Bills

UNPUBLISHED

9 Lounges Team

12/7/2025

Steve Larkman returns with a track that feels like a cinematic wander through the forgotten corners of Los Angeles, where heartbreak, gambling, and self-reflection collide. “Blue Money Bills” is a blues-rock confession wrapped in powerful storytelling—an unmistakable hallmark of Larkman’s songwriting. With influences rooted in punk, indie, and classic blues, Larkman once again proves why he remains one of the most intriguing musical storytellers emerging from the UK scene.

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Crafted on a Gibson SG: Where Blues Meets Modern Indie Rock

Larkman reveals that the track was born while “jammin on the Gibson SG”, an iconic guitar known for shaping rock legends. The opening riff immediately captures that vintage, swampy blues tone—warm, gritty, and emotionally loaded.

From that riff, he built the melody, chords, and rhythmic backbone of the track. What stands out is the fluid blend of genres:

  • The rawness of blues

  • The heart of indie rock

  • The storytelling style reminiscent of classic British punk-influenced songwriting

The production—done by Larkman himself on Pro Tools 9—gives the track an intimate, warm feel without sacrificing punch.

A Soul-Stirring Narrative Built on Loss, Risk, and Raw Emotion

At the heart of “Blue Money Bills” lies an intimate, honest narrative. Steve Larkman crafts a character-driven story featuring Dolores and Encino—figures he created to explore the desperation and downfall of a man who has gambled away not only his savings but his sense of belonging.
These characters allow him to paint a vivid emotional landscape:

  • Losing a lover

  • Losing a home

  • Losing confidence

  • And finally losing the very “blue money bills” that once kept him afloat

The lyrics feel like pages torn from a blues novel—deeply human, poetic, and heavy with regret. The LA backdrop adds a symbolic edge, reflecting loneliness, illusion, and the quiet surrender of a dreamer who overstayed his hope.

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A Standout Performance with Paul Rogers on Piano

A major sonic highlight is the excellent piano performance by Paul Rogers, whose playing complements the emotional grit of the song. His addition brings a smoky, barroom-blues texture—like a small forgotten club where the lights are dim and the stories are heavy.

The layers of guitar, drums, and piano weave together into a rich soundscape, enhancing the narrative without overwhelming it. Steve vocal delivery is raw and vulnerable—the perfect storytelling instrument.

Themes of Defeat, Reflection, and an Unexpected Sense of “Home”

As the chorus unfolds, Steve sings about being “already home”—a line that reveals a deeper meaning. Beyond losing Dolores and his money, the character reaches a point of resigned acceptance. Home becomes not a place but a state of soul—broken, wandering, but oddly grounded in truth.

This emotional duality is a testament to Steve's growth as a songwriter. He doesn’t just tell a story; he lets the listener feel the weight of every line.

A Powerful Addition to Steve Steve's Expanding Musical Legacy

“Blue Money Bills” solidifies Steve Steve as an artist who understands how to fuse narrative depth with genre-blending musicianship. His ability to create worlds through lyrics, supported by authentic instrumentation, sets him apart in today’s indie rock landscape.

With a growing catalogue and collaborations that include respected musicians like Paul Rogers, Steve continues to rise as a compelling voice in UK rock and blues.

Explore Epic Studio Tour By Andrew Masters

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