Definitive Transatlantic Collection, The - Ralph McTell

Advantages: Very good first half.
Disadvantages: Bad second half.

..., the material wavers over time, and gets either less accessible or more schmaltzy. Some of the later stuff lacks inspiration, like Dark Is The Night' and 'Summer Has Moved On', which are both just average pop songs, which (dare I say it) wouldn't sound out of place on a Westlife album. So my recommendation is this - if you can get this album for cheap - I did for £2.99 - then it's a nice purchase. But it's an all better investment to get the album 'Hunting High And Low', which is one of the best pop album of all time in my opinion. This collection is primarily good for the first half, but definitely wavers in quality at the end.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Quality songwriting and arrangements
Disadvantages: Maybe a little dated in parts

...McTell is in fine form in this often overlooked album, his songwriting evoking personal experiences as well as the metaphysical, and looking far beyond the folk world for musical inspiration. The arrangements switch from minimal accompaniment to rock band to Robert Kirby's bold orchestrations on the standout track, "The Ferryman". Although some of the themes of the songs, such as "Pick Up A Gun", "Claudia" and "Chalkdust" are somewhat depressing, McTell relates the stories so well they can't help but leave a lasting imprint. "Tonight In Some Way I Loved You", the tale of a one-night stand, particularly displays the mixed emotions of the situation. If there is a weak link, it is possibly the rather turgid title track. It is interesting to see some names among the credits who would become famous for other ventures, including... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: A brilliant Roadtrip Album
Disadvantages: You may not want to get to your destination

...You can always tell a good album by the frequency that you play it. The Definitive Blues Brothers Collection, I keep in my car, ensuring that on my frequent long journey's I'll have something that nearly every passenger, no matter their musical tastes can sing along to and enjoy. Not only is it a definitive collection of classic blues as sung by Dan Aykroyd and John Belushi (as well as many of the greats and Legends of Blues, Soul and Mow town), it's also a definitive classic that will have you singing along to "Minnie the Moocher", tapping the steering wheel to "Jail house Rock" and bringing back fond memories of both great films. Well worth the money, and a great album to drive to.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful