Review by Iain Strefford ~ Wednesday, 12 August 2009

It's hard to believe that this is only the second solo release from the former Silencers and Casbah Club front man. 2002 saw the release of his excellent debut album Sunnyside PAL and the intervening years have seen him mired down in legal problems and his record label going bust. So, has it been worth the wait?

The one thing that was never in doubt was the quality of Gilmour's voice, but it came as a surprise to many that he was also a fine songwriter capable of writing anthemic melodies and painting pictures with his lyrics. This album carries on the quality where his debut left off. The production is smooth and warm, which is no surprise as it was recorded with the production team behind Wet, Wet, Wet's biggest hits, but the music is a million miles away from the former teen idols. Gilmour shows he is not afraid to take on subjects that others would avoid. 'Last Destination' tackles the thorny issue of abortion, while 'Wild Child' poignantly questions the futility of war and is dedicated to journalist Richard Wild who was shot dead in Baghdad. Powerful stuff.

While some of the subject matter may be dark, the music is upbeat throughout. Uplifting even. 'All About Me' being a prime example, but it is on the slower, more mellow tracks that he seems to be more at ease. 'This Could Be Love' is a beautiful acoustic ballad with a chorus that should carry a health warning it is so contagious.

So, has it been worth the wait? Definitely. This record deserves to be heard, as does Gilmour himself.

jjgilmour.com