Review Summary: A great debut from a mostly unknown English artist. Songs to check out: State of the Union, Katie
In October of 2005, an English artist by the name of David Ford launched his solo album to a largely unknowing public. I must confess that had it not had one of the tracks as the iTunes 'Free Single of the Week", not even I would have known of Ford's existance. But fortunately they did and I do. After buying it, it took a few listens to fully appreciate it for what it is, an expression of the soul of David Ford. His lyrics are very heartfelt and sung accordingly, making it a memorable album for me.
Before writing this review, I did some minimal research on the album and, not surprisingly, I found that it was recorded by David Ford in his home studio. It came as no surprise because the music has a thin texture most of the time, usually just an acoustic guitar, drums, and the vocals, although there are many other instruments that are used.
Track 1 - I Don't Care What You Call Me - 6:23
The opening track on the album. Begins with an acoustic guitar and some nice vocals. A slow song for the most of it, though the pace quickens a few minutes into the song. Has a generous solo accompanied by a harmonica, and then climaxes with another chorus and slowly winds down from there and ends. A good song, but a bit on the long side. 3/5
Track 2 - State Of The Union - 4:32
This is perfect. This is heaven. This song is beyond compare. T'was the single on iTunes, and the reason I purchased this album. Begins with guitar and vocals, and slowly builds up for the whole song until just before the end. The lyrics Ford's take on the degredation of society. Beyond compare. Mere words cannot express how much I enjoy this song. Perhaps I have overrated it, but it is a song you must hear for yourself. Best song on the album. 7/5
Track 3 - What Would You Have Me Do - 4:25
A very piano driven song. Well written lyrics, and very relaxing. Features a violin solo and a saxophone solo. Wel worth a listen, but not one of the stand-out tracks. 3.5/5
Track 4 - Cheer Up (You Miserable F*ck) - 6:17
Another good song. Works well with an electric guitar, piano and a bass guitar for most of the song. Features a violin, a saxophone, an organ and a tamborine. Brilliantly titled. 3.5/5
Track 5 - A Long Time Ago - 3:02
A soft, tranquil song. The lyrics deal with regret and general confusion. The music and vocals compliment each other quite well and make for a great track. An organ and harmonica can be heard on this track. 4.5/5
Track 6 - Don't Tell Me - 4:24
Quite a good track, while not being a stand-out one. Good lyrics, although the music is mostly rhythm, leaving the vocals most of the melody. Slowly paced. 3.5/5
Track 7 - Katie - 4:06
Easily my second favourite song on the album. The lyrics deal with a man's suspicion of his girlfriend cheating on him. Starts slowly, but quickly launches into a great bassline and some solid drumming which perfectly fit the song. Very good song. 4.5/5
Track 8 - If You Only Knew - 4:18
A positive sounding song, a change of pace. Guitars a-plenty and good lyrics. I like this song a lot, but unfortunately, the lyrics are repeated too much. 4/5
Track 9 - Laughing Aloud - 8:16
The closing song of the album. Very mellow and soft, with most of it just vocals and a guitar. But I like it. I like how the song flows and I really like the chorus. Yes, eight minutes is a lot of time. Yes, it could have been shortened. But. It is a good song, and definitely a good closing track. 4/5
Summary - A solid album. Good for playing to falling asleep to or just relaxing. Be warned that this album is not for everyone. Many of the songs sound very much alike, so if you do not like the way a few songs are, you will most likely not enjoy the album. That being said, I very much enjoyed it, and would highly recommend it
This Message Edited On 12.16.06
