Gathered In Song - Damien Jurado

Advantages: A stunning first album and Every track is beautiful.
Disadvantages: Very sad.

...- DAMIEN RICE O - Singer/Songwriter Damien Rice strolled quietly onto the music scene back in 2003, with the hauntingly beautiful album 'O', and before too long he had made a big noise in the music industry. Irish born Rice had previously left the rock band Juniper to pursue a solo career. Juniper had already released two singles and was well on their way to putting out their first album with Polygram. But Damien was disenchanted with the label and left the band behind in 1999 in search of pastures new. Rice left the Emerald Isle and busked around Europe gathering musicians to fit in with his new direction in music, in the form of cellist Vyvienne Long, Tomo on drums, Shane Fitzsimmons on Bass, and remarkable singer Lisa Hannigan, with everything in place, he returned to his homeland to resume his career. Damien Rice... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful

Advantages: Musical brilliance. Superb accompany band.
Disadvantages: Not enough of it!

...This is a superb, yet different, follow-up to Rice's "O." The acclaimed Irish musician has a muse with writing absorbing lyrics and and spine-tingling tabs. We see a progression from lust to love, though also Damien Rice progresses into his music in more depth. A special mention has to be made to Lisa Hannigan also who adds a uncharted beauty to the songs. On the album, each song fits succulently in the atmosphere of the album with a depression-clad open and finish, yet more enjoyable songs in the centre. Each song is hauntingly romantic if listened to deeply, and each speaks a different, encrypted message. It is an aquired taste, as some may find dull and boring; though if you enjoy beautiful music this is the best <£10 you could spend on an album.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: A passionate and inspiring album with amazing lyrics
Disadvantages: None

...and decided to record some of his songs. With no job, Damien borrowed some money from people who would lend it and put together a short demo. With this, he won producer and film composer David Arnold's support, which provided Damien with enough money to buy his own mobile recording studio. Musicians -------------- Damien got to work on his album, together with some other musicians. Tom Osander (former member of the band "God Street Wine") joined Damien as his drummer, percussionist, and backing vocalist, Vyvienne Long agreed to play strings along with piano and occasional backing vocals, and Shane Fitzsimons joined the group playing bass guitar. Damien also found a second vocalist and electric guitarist, who gained much success after the release of the album, Lisa Hannigan. Recording --------------- By 2001, the his group put together many... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful