A-Z Geographer's Guide To The Piano, The - Jools Holland

Advantages: Jools Holland and the Rhythm & Blues Orchestra
Disadvantages: Tom Jones' vocals in a few tracks

...The most unlikely collaboration of "sex bomb" Tom Jones, with the piano toting masterclass of Jools Holland produces inspired results. Tom Jones for the people unaware of him is one of the most famous singers to come out of Wales alongside the great Shirley Bassey. In a career spanning over 40 years he has sold millions of records and captured the hearts of middle aged women. Recognisable by all from songs like "What's new pussy cat" , "It's not unusual" and most recently "Sex Bomb" it seems the guy won't go away. But who would want him to if he's still churning out the records with his weapon of choice, that overpowering and discernible voice. Jools Holland has been one of the best British pianists for years and along with his rhythm and blues orchestra can be seen touring round the country. Jools Holland is also a renowned... Read review

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Advantages: Who else has a left hand like Jools?
Disadvantages: Some tracks sound similar.

...in Circles) is rocky and will get your foot tapping. Wellar's voice is perfect for the song, although the lyrics are relatively uninspiring. Sam Brown's Valentine Moon is track 4, and is undoubtedly my favourite song on the album. Brown has sang with Jools Holland's Rhythm and Blues Orchestra for some time now, and although she is relatively unknown, her voice is unique and fantastic. Its a relatively simple song with Jools providing a vamp on the piano and some nice strings, but its this simplicity that brings it its beauty. Tracks 5 and 6 are Joe Strummer's The Return of the Blues Cowboy and Dr. John's The Hand that Changed Its Mind respectively. As the title suggests, the former is a simple bluesy piece with a small piano solo in the middle. The latter is another foot stomping jazzy number where we get to hear some Jools vocals. Track 7... Read review

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Advantages: Guitar solos, strong bass lines, track 13 is really different
Disadvantages: Takes a few listens to like, much more calm

...to be "Waving not drowning". This track is an amazing up lifting track which features Paul Weller on Guitar and Jools Holland on piano. A great Ocean Colour Scene album has taken a while to come but this masterpiece proves that it was well worth the wait. Anyone put of buying the album because the last album was a bit dissapointing, should give this one a go - they will be pleasantly suprised.... Read review

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