Not Till Tomorrow - Ralph McTell

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: Proper songs with words and instruments you can hear
Disadvantages: You may like it and have to buy some more Bob Fox Cd's

..., In the Month of January (traditional) 7, Greek Lightning (Jez Lowe) Jez is from the next village to Bob and is another Great Folk singer/songwriter. 8, From Me to You (Lennon/McCartney) Bobs interpretation of a Beatles Classic. 9, The Rambling Rover (Andy M Stewart) not that scottish bloke who's pal Donald lost his trousers. 10, From Clare to Here. (Ralph McTell) 11, Take Her in Your Arms (Andy M Stewart) I like the line "its not the fall but landing that'll alter social standing" refering to leaping out of buildings when a loser in love. 12, The Galway Shawl (traditional) (Not listed but the CD "Dark to the Sky" by The Hush (2002)featuring Bob on lead vocals is also exceptional. If Bob Fox and this genre of music classed as Folk is new to you and you are not sure obout comitting your hard earned cash to the unknown then why not borrow... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Days of Pearly Spencer
Disadvantages: The rest

...burdened with startlingly inappropriate production. Slight songs were marred by pointless washes of poppy orchestral strings or irritatingly jaunty woodwind flourishes. In more apt musical settings, these songs may have survived. As it is, they are suffocated at birth. If you're really in the market for some poor-man's Ralph McTell or Gordon Lightfoot-lite, by all means give this a listen. But, as it was all done so much better by others, it hardly seems worth the effort. Track listing: 1. Days Of Pearly Spencer 2. For Josephine 3. Brown Eyed Girl (not the Van Morrison song, sadly) 4. Marlena 5. For A Little Girl 6. Lady Helen Of The Laughing Eyes 7. What's The Matter With Me 8. There's No Lock Upon My Door 9. Tomorrows Like Today 10. Mister Satisfied 11. I Love Susie In The Summer 12. Harlem Lady 13. Letter To My Love 14. City Blues 15... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful