Larry Beckett – “Don’t Walk Away” [Song Review]

Renowned poet and songwriter Larry Beckett releases his single, “Don’t Walk Away,” a track lifted from his forthcoming fifth album, Though We Have Only Love: The Songs of Jacques Brel, a tribute to the Belgian singer and actor.

Slated to drop on January 9, 2026, Though We Have Only Love reinterprets 14 of Brel’s chansons, infusing them with alt-rock flair yet maintaining their melodies and harmonies.

Talking about his translation of the lyrics in English, Beckett explains, “Up to now, Brel’s songs have not been faithfully translated. I wanted to capture both the poetry and the passion of his work while keeping aligned with the original French version.”

The upcoming album finds Beckett on vocals, spoken word, and piano, along with long-time collaborator Stuart Anthony (vocals, guitar), and the talents of Mike Hodgkins (drums), Matt Canty (bass), and James Edge (piano, keys, flute).

A celebrated poet, Beckett’s American Cycle was published in 2021. He was the lyricist and arranger for Tim Buckley – the two co-wrote “Song to the Siren.” Beckett’s work has received praise from W.S. Merwin, William Meredith, and Charles Wright.

Larry Beckett, photo by Laura Fletcher

“Don’t Walk Away” opens on Stuart Anthony’s gleaming yet portentous guitar, revealing passionate, beseeching colors, while half-spoken, half-sung vocals imbue the lyrics with aching longing. There’s a tragic weight hovering over the melody, giving it an aura of unbearable emotional sorrow. For some reason, the urgency injected into the lyrics summons up suggestions of Leonard Cohen.

Drawing on a deep cache of emotion, Larry Beckett unveils a moving, poignant performance of the desperation of love.

Run Time: 4:46
Release Date: November 14, 2025
Record Label: Goodbye and Hello Music