Well first off, ok this type of music may not be for everyone but Ben should be given a chance because this album is amazing in my opinion. The things which make it much better than his rival, Ray is that ben wrote some of the songs on this album which i think makes him a true artist.
Beside You
Pop-Rock!!! this track has that summer feel to it, with a catchy chorus... was supposed to be Ben's first single, but alas was withdrawn to concentrate on album sales instead. Video shot in South Africa, on the beach...This track is supposed to bring rock and pop together and cater to all tastes - some like it some don't, but over time people can't get that tune out of their heads... so much debate over this, ending in the same result !! people talking...
Amazed
Lonestar cover - showing that softer and focused element to Ben's vocals... one of those tracks you would hear played at a wedding or the last dance at a disco... for me, more of a filler track on the album, all be it a good version. Would be interested as to why this song was chosen for the album...? (Mmm think Ben did actually mention somewhere, that he wanted to try different styles and see what his fans think, and move on from there, on his second album).
This track works well for Ben, and the climax builds up very well finishing with an understanding of what the song is all about.
Nothing But The Truth
Acoustic intro - another original track from Ben... sadness yet meaning - a journey into the unknown, with an element of confusion and justice... not knowing whether your coming or going, looking for that strength in others and belief that what you do will help you achieve your end game - there is light at the end of the tunnel... broken hearts and tears, but all in all the truth - another favorite for me.
Maggie May
Classic song, with a nice intro and piano starter, then breaks into the song which is very upbeat and strong with those distinctive vocals from Mr. Mills - elements of the bass rifting through as well as the lead guitar, so overall quite a good cover version... ending with that legendary strings outro and vocals.
Anytime You Fall
An original song with that mellowish start and soft vocal moving into that classic sound of the acoustic and subtle bass drum picking up into a very strong vocal and blemished backing vocal... flowing sounds of the traditional organ and lucid tambourine, overall a great song.
Love Waits For Me
Any song with a mouth organ is a bonus, kicking in with that upbeat happy feel... band in sync with the lead feeling that overall front sounding vocal. You can just see everyone singing along to this and having a good time - has that Van Morrison appeal to it and overall a very good album track... actually one of my favorites.
Don't Wanna Miss A Thing
This is a very strong cover, and suits Ben's vocals perfectly, you could even imagine him doing the original and soundtrack to Armageddon. In his element with those ambient rock vocals and passion - heart felt and pleasing, this version will wow the ladies at any concert (could you be that lucky lady). Building up to that expected climax, finishing off the love story behind the song regardless of it's meaning - right choice to be included on the album.
Somebody To Love
Soft acoustic intro, with those temple vocals, laden and accurate - the other side of Ben we all know and love, this version pulls you in and does not need that original Queen sound that we are all used to... again the mouth organ put to good use. You get that feeling of Ben standing in the middle of a stadium singing to the masses and everyone enjoying that moment. It's a shame that this version did not have the London Community Gospel Choir !! still got the tour to come, so who knows...?
The Last To Fall
Ssshhh! another soft intro with those soft vocals and the kick drum building up the track nice and slowly... lots of strings in this one. Showing Ben's true talent as a song writer and musician, this track is powerful to the mind and has that effect of drawing you into the atmosphere and story of the song - changing tempo toward the end, upping the pace and feeling of wanting more... ending with that soft vocal again.
Bring It On Home To Me
Sam Cooke classic here, covered well by Ben, suiting his husky rock vocals - just imagining him standing there tapping his thigh, belting out this track with pure ease... remembering that this was the track that got Ben through to the X-Factor boot camp and live finals. You could imagine such a song actually being written for Ben. If this is not his comfort zone, then i don't know what is...?
Picture of You
One of the originals on the album, penned by Ben himself... there's a story behind this, and a very emotional strength to the lyrics and backing... that laid back tempo and feeling of a Rod Stewart ambiance. This track would make a great single and is one of the best songs that I've heard in a long time, that gives meaning and understanding to what a great song should be about. Has the song taken you to where it wants to go...?
With A Little Help From My Friends
Quality, retro intro... one that stands the test of time, with that sixties band feel and classic stance... so much going on, yet we can still establish that Ben is in there somewhere - there is passion and feeling, like he is singing this for all and everyone...His way of saying thank you, and there is so much more to come... building you up to that penultimate climax followed by that melodic breakdown and outro... those poor VU meters going off the scale, and your neighbors banging on the walls !!!
Overall this album from Ben, i feel has set the benchmark for others within these reality shows... a good mixture of old and new, and it gives you that hope to look forward to Ben's next outing !!! This album deserves to been in anyones CD rack or mp3 player, and should be an inspiration to others and those who want to achieve their dreams and goals and not be put off...
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Mar 14th, 2007
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