It's been nearly 20 years since I last featured Royal Wood on Indie Launchpad. That’s not due to a lack of productivity, as this is just one of many albums and EPs he's released in recent years. Just Another Day (Deluxe) is an album version of the previously released EP of the same name, but this time there are 7 tracks instead of the original 5.

Opening with the title track, and for me it's like I've never been away. Maybe there's a hint of added experience in the vocals, but that clean, bright, and breezy sound is still delivered so effortlessly. This track is upbeat and you can't help but tap along.

Starting Again is classic storytelling, paired with excellent music, giving off that Billy Joel vibe with maybe more than a subtle nod to Joel's vocal delivery.

One Eye Open is a nice song, but it truly comes alive when guest vocalist Bryn steps in, front and centre. When both are singing, it's a magical combination, and one I hope to hear more of in the future.

Movie Love brings the tempo down a little. It feels more contemplative, with touches of a sombre tone and subtle hints of melancholy.

Montgomery, I think, reminds me of the Royal Wood I was first introduced to on his album Good Enough Day. And this is where the EP version ends.

The album includes two extra tracks. The first is Howling at the Moon. This one has a distinctly different tone, with a Gothic, Halloween overtone and, at times, a harder guitar edge. It's nice to hear something a little different.

Ending with And So (Acoustic), which at times has that Paul Simon storytelling vibe, this track serves as a great way to close out the relatively short album.

It's nice to have Royal Wood back on my radar. This release is from 2023, so I'm hoping there's something new in the offing soon.