Review Summary: A lost gem that never disappoints and makes you wonder why David Gray didn't achieve great success with his debut.
Nineteen years have passed since the release of this album and although Gray's career took a huge turn, 'A Century Ends' still ranks as one of the best folk-rock records of the 1990s. When it came out, the world was totally unfazed by its beautiful melodies, stunning lyrics and Dave's raspy vocals, but as the new decade arrived and his 'tour de force' fourth album sold over seven million copies, 'A Century Ends' was rediscovered by the masses.
The album kicks-off with one of Gray's best singles to date, the beautifully raw 'Shine'. Its melancholic guitars and mournful lyrics are also what make songs like 'Birds Without Wings' and 'Gathering Dust', so wondrous. The other tracks have heavier guitar tunes and stronger vocals, providing some clues to what his subsequent albums would sound like (for example, 'Wisdom' and 'It's All Over' could perfectly be part of the singer's 1994 effort 'Flesh').
'A Century Ends' never disappoints and the unbelievable part is that David Gray had to wait over five years and make three more albums to achieve the success he deserved.
