9 (Parental Advisory) [PA] - Damien Rice > Reviews > Damien Rice is a genius

Author's product rating:   

Originality	Definitely a cut above the rest
Lyrics	Thought-provoking
Quality and consistency of tracks	A couple of weak links
How does it compare to the artist's other releases	Good
Value for Money	Excellent

Advantages:	Great chilled tunes
Disadvantages:	Very slow

Recommend to potential buyers:

yes

Full review

For those who find Radiohead depressing there are two options in relation to this album. Walk away, as its similarly slow and melancholy.... Or, read on and buy the album due to its beautiful lyrics, amazing vocals from Damien and Lisa Hannigan and.. well its not about hating life and everything in it!
The single from the album is called 9 crimes and is a masterpiece of a track with Hannigans vocals' a highlight (as is often the case). It kicks off this album and follows perfectly from the amazing 'O' album. I wasn't sure if Damien Rice could find it in him to write as good an album as the last.... However, he appears to have done it with this. There are one or two lesser tracks on there but in the main its absolutely jam-packed with classics.
As you expect rom this singer-songwriter the melody and lyrics intertwine perfectly as does his use of strange instruments (wurlitzer, wine glasses etc) within the tracks. If you enjoyed his previous work there is no question that this album should be purchased asap! For those who are unfamiliar with Rice's work.. buy the album, get it on the stereo... loud, sit back and relax. You will be pleased you took my advice.