Great British Song Stylist - David Hughes

Advantages: excellent songs
Disadvantages: none

...of the love affair between David and Ireland, where his music has been welcomed and all of his shows are immediate sell-outs. Unfortunately, 'A Century Ends' is now cut from production, so locating the album may prove difficult in times to come. the album 'White Ladder' in 1998 (Irish release=1998; UK=1999). Critically and among fans - both new and old - this was a remarkable record. Retaining his trademark accoustic sound, but combining it with computer samples and drum loops. On the back of this album, David is touring exhaustively, his fan base now growing by the week. He has also contributed songs and starred in the hit British film, 'This Year`s Love', which won him a new audience for his music. The music of David Gray is finally getting the audience it deserved and the coverage it needed. While the road was rocky, David is certainly... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Memorable tunes with comprehensible and meaningful lyrics
Disadvantages: Sonically gorgeous; musically not as clever as some

...The second offering from a now well established British act, Open Season follows up 2003's Decline Of British Sea Power, and only broadens the wealth of talent to be found on the Rough Trade label. Drawing on influences as diverse as Echo & The Bunnymen, Doves and David Bowie, it's a solid album from start to finish. 1. It Ended On An Oily Stage: An upbeat starter, showcasing Yan's versatile voice: from a serene, almost creepy vocal in the chorus, to a more urgent growl immediately afterward. Helped by some virtuosic drumming and a yo-yo-ing guitar riff, this is a sound opener. 2. Be Gone: A catchy riff is doubled by the vocal melody until the chorus, at which point the vocals rise to a ridiculous pitch and the guitars provide an evocative backdrop. The shortest track on the record, but infectious. 3. How Will I Ever Find My Way... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful

Advantages: Thoughtful, gentle and above all, British.
Disadvantages: Depressing, sullen and not good listening for a bad day....

...Short haired, young unemployed bum in a long dark coat is probably the first visual concept one comes up with when trying to describe the presence of Mr David Gray. Ordinary - no frills or even the hint of lip gloss can be found on this peculiar singer song writer who seems to have sprung up from no where only to slip quietly into the night in the last year or so. Where has he been? No one seems to know. It would appear that when an artist treads over that invisible line from commercial chuck-an-album-out-now-before-they-get-bored attitude to British film soundtrack that gives a musical backing to yet another Hugh Grant scene with puppy dog eyes, they inevitable happens; the singles dry up and Ben Elton forever leaves message on the answer phone, so let's take a peek at was has been in the world of greyer than grey, Gray… From... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful