Water Of Dreams - Ralph McTell

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: 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: Genuine lost masterpiece
Disadvantages: Taken so long to be re-released on CD

...'s customary perfect singing. The middle section, of Eddie's acoustc piano playing, is just like a dream, before Eddie, Mike and Jim come back in with a live and completely un-overdubbed power motif that makes EL and P sound like Chicory Tip. Other highlights include Mike's 232, with a guitar solo that makes your eyes water, tasteful, exciting, fast and appropriate: and Easy, Sonja's bitter sweet ballad that turns into a powerhouse driver with great keys, bass drums and additional vocals from Mike (old man of the band at 22), who is exemplary throughout. Mind you, his close late relations include Ralph Vaughan Williams, Charles Darwin and of course, Josiah Wedgwood the potter, who was also the direct ancestor of Anthony Wedgwood "Benn", who looks just like Mike's Dad. True to your roots, eh, "Tony"? Mike (bass) could score for an orchestra... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful