Adorable Blossom Dearie, The - Blossom Dearie

Advantages: Every track is perfect
Disadvantages: Follow up albums lacked its depth

...Emerging from the bar scene in Tempe, Az, the Gin Blossoms helped define the 1990s alternative AOR sound with a superb record which dealt with the highs and lows of lost and found love. Songwriter Doug Hopkins lived a short life through his songs and ultimately took his own life with depression and alcohol but left behind a work of sheer emotional intensity that has been rarely matched since. Too many reviews focus on the Blossoms' sound of "power pop" but the songs fused with Robin Wilson's vocals provided a radio friendly sound with songs such as Hey Jealousy and Mrs Rita. As a snapshot of 90's alternative rock, the record stands up as a masterpiece and all these years on, the Gin Blossoms sound remains a timeless classic. This is a must buy album.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: None
Disadvantages: Too many to name

...... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Can be played over and over, songs never grow old
Disadvantages: Slightly different sound to previous album if you're expecting lots of piano

...After the outstanding hit 'Hopes and Fears' a lot was riding on this album but I think Keane have really pulled out a beauty. Keane have retained their piano-based melodies, but these are much thicker in texture and sound a little more electronic. The medolies are more varied than the samey songs found in 'Hopes and Fears' and frankly, they're all fantastic! Amazing, beautiful lyrics played with such security and confidence reassures listeners that Keane will be around for a long time! I adore this album, Tom has a gorgeous voice and they've really blossomed as a band. Their songs are emotional, some real heart-wretchingly sad songs mingled with some upbeat toe-tappers. Songs of mention are Crystal Ball and Nothing In My Way. I bought this around September, October time when it was released and still listen to it now in June, it's so... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful