Reviewed by Phil Thomson I wonder if the favourites of the festivals have an identity crisis? The album is magnetic, compelling - right from the insistent, imperative opening track "Kingdom Coming", we are into strong, driven songs, great writing, up-front lyrics - it's all there. But Louise Fellingham's lead vocals don't quite rise to the occasion when she has to cut loose. She doesn't quite have the edge for some of the songs. No matter, she has enough range and fragility in her voice to carry most of the material convincingly, with excellent bvs - as on the mid-paced "I Have Come" and the anthem-like "Holy, Holy" (where the backing swells to a choir). For me, it all comes together in the heart-felt ballad "What Would I Do" and worth it for this track alone, As for the identity bit: one minute Chrissie Hynde, the next, a little bit of Texas, By the third play, it didn't really matter; it's a great album. Of course, the real star is Alan Shacklock. He's almost an old-timer now, but still producing with such a sure touch. I can live with the cryptic title and the fact that the ubiquitous Chris Eaton shows up again - this time in the choir; Phatfish have big ideas and definitely manage to see them through.
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1. |
Kingdom Coming |
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