CORPORATE LINE: David Gray is back with his seventh album ‘Life in Slow Motion’ which is released in Ireland on 9th September, UK and Europe 12th September and the USA and Canada on 13th September.
In a break with prior tradition Life In Slow Motion is the first of David’s albums to be recorded in a ‘full scale’ studio environment as opposed to the ‘bedroom’ sized facilities favoured in the past. This increased physical space is matched by an evolution in David’s musical aspirations. Life In Slow Motion is the first of his recent albums on which David and his group have been abetted by an outside producer, Marius De Vries (Rufus Wainwright, David Bowie, Madonna, U2).
THE GREAT:
“Ain’t No Love” – Finally a song that comes close to being everything great about David Gray. A delicious sparseness that doesn’t try to overwhelm you with atmosphere instead it allows you to focus on Gray’s words and tender voice.
“Alibi” – Gray comes out and opens this record with a bang. This is a delicious track that expands on his usual barren tracks.
THE AVERAGE:
“The One I Love” – After a few listens Gray sounds awkward on this track. Something doesn’t sound quite right. Perhaps it’s the high pitch ‘he-he’ or the tempo that is too upbeat.
“Lately” – has more going on than the usual piano but unlike “The One I Love” Gray sounds like he is in his element. He releases his words with a flow of confidence.
THE BAD:
Nothing.
FRANKLY: Life In Slow Motion is quite a conundrum—probably more so for David Gray. Here is a singer who won fans with his sparse recordings and honest lyrics. This release takes a new approach to recording—and one that would seem more geared towards a wider audience—thanks to the production of Mirius de Vries (Madonna’s Ray of Light and Music). Mirius is a brilliant producer but too slick for David Gray’s style. Gray’s lovely lyrics and melodies still survive—they just get lost in the mix.
+ Rae Gun
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