Abiriwa - Peacocks International

Advantages: Subtle yet soulful performances, thoughtful lyrics, great arrangements
Disadvantages: Nothing at all

...Once more I've dipped into my ever-growing collection of female singer-songwriter albums to find this little gem of a CD, released back in 2002 but again something that hardly anyone will have heard before, let alone bought.... so what's special about Minnesota-born Alice Peacock? Even the most cursory listen through her eponymously-titled 2002 album - her second after 1999's "Real Day" - lets you know this is an AAA album tending to veer sharply towards the alt-country end of the spectrum in places. Don't dismiss the artist or this CD due to those labels, though, since you'd be throwing away the chance to listen to an alt-country album for people who don't necessarily like alt-country.... There's an added attraction in that she sounds rather uncannily like Sheryl Crow at times - especially in the days of the latter's "Globe Sessions... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: 11 great songs
Disadvantages: No AYBOAYB

...The Bluetones first came to my attention whilst I was at sixth form, with the single Are You Blue Or Are You Blind, back in 1995. This single doesn't appear on the album, which is a shame, but it isn't really missed due to the high quality of the 11 tracks that do appear. There is a definite Stone Roses influence over this album, but since when has that been a bad thing? Talking To Clarry is a real mood builder and sets the tone for what is to follow. There isn't a bad song on the album, and when the ba-ba-ba-babah's have finished on Time and Again, you'll go right over and start this album again. One thing did confuse me and lead to many a debate in the common room. The album is titled Expecting to Fly, yet on the cover is a peacock, now aren't they flightless birds?... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Unique and original sounds. A contrast to other albums.
Disadvantages: None.

...Gomez have long been a brilliant indi/ rock group. They have a completely distinct sound which makes them recognisable amongst other groups. 13 excellent tracks including: Rhythmic intricacy, tricky and unusual time signatures are weaved into the collusion of sound which they create, and the drive of the beat never wavers thanks to drummer Olly Peacock. Gomez are one of the most creative bands in the business writing sensitive, moving songs and backing them up with some of the best ensemble playing committed to tape. Their mastery of vocal harmonies alone is beautiful. To be honest, this is their best album to date. You can listen to it again and again and again without becoming remotely bored. Gomez have been in my top ten bands since i heard of them years ago.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful