Glasvegas are a four-piece from Glasgow - the latest band to be championed by industry mogul Alan McGee, the man that "discovered" Oasis. Despite the inevitable hyperbole that has followed McGee's proclamation of the band, Glasvegas more than deliver on their early promise with this eponymous debut album. The quartet already showcased their earthy wit and sonic ambitions on singles such as "Daddy's Gone," a heartfelt tale of soured father-son relations delivered in an uncompromising Glaswegian accent and set to a shimmering wall of rock & roll. Glasvegas continues in more or less the same vein. Singer James Allen reels off stories of everyday city life over euphonious, pop-edged soundtracks that blend 50s surf rock, layered, Phil Spector-esque production values and the occasional splash of 60s doo wop. Tracks like the arching "Flowers and Football Tops", the confessional "It's My Own Cheating Heart That Makes Me Cry" and the upbeat "Legs & Show" contrast with darker songs like "Stabbed" and "Go Square Go!". The band's down-to-earth worldview combined with their nostalgic sound and surging, sing-a-long choruses makes for a rich and enjoyable musical tapestry.

At last a band with authenticity, 17 Nov 2008
In an entertainment business full of faked stance and faux emotion, all of a sudden something REAL has come along. Glasvegas are tough, rough around the edges but ultimately this is the genuinely most affecting releases not just in 2008 but for many years.

Let's be clear about this, 'Glasvegas' aren't romanticised 'loser' jangle from the bedroom of a semi-detached, this is raw anguish, the sound of souls being shreaded by the dismal reality of life on the streets of the East End of Glasgow. The album covers such topics as gang violence, disfunctional families and perhaps most of all the utter desperation of the poverty trap and the yearning for a better life.

If all this sounds a little dreary, like a Ken Loach film set to music, then it is most definitely not. Glasvegas takes you through the spectrum of human emotions and back again.

Heart breaking music if ever there was.

Tidal Wave Of Hype, 17 Nov 2008
Tidal wave of hype blah blah ******* blah.

Was the hype justified? Well that depends on what you mean by 'hype' - if a record company signs a new band they like, then they will always try to sell them - that's their job. In that respect hype is always justified.

Whether the band lives up to the hype is another matter. I was going to buy this on day of release but didn't - the hype was too far above the plimsol line.

So I waited a couple of months, still interested to hear it:

Thematically Glasvegas is a very heavy LP - it's got the kind of full-on unflinching 'rock and roll - deal with it' vibe that Unknown Pleasures had. This pretty much makes it the diameter opposite of bands like Coldplay, whose discontent seems to stem from paradise syndrome and misplaced earnestness.

Trackwise I'd have to say there's nothing here that is less than very good, with occasional bits of brilliance - my fave track being S.A.D. Light. A proper anthem for anyone who lives north of Kent.

Glasvegas were on a fine line with this LP - at times they get dangerously close to greeting sentimentality territory but somehow the deftness of the lyrics and the understated musicianship pull it back from the edge.

The problem with hype is that it doesn't convey the scope of a record. And the hype (true to form) doesn't really give an idea of how remarkable this release is. And it's not perfect, although if I ever heard a perfect record it would probably be by idiots and only merit one star.

MEGA!!!, 06 Nov 2008
the music, the lyrics, the guitars, the drums, the voice!! everything about this album is MEGA!! buy it!!!

If you like Pete Wylie you'll love this!, 16 Oct 2008
I caught "Daddy's Gone" on the radio back in August. I don't listen to Radio 1 any more but I was in a friend's car and this just stood head and shoulders above anything else was hearing on the station. I just had to have it.

Listening from the start I thought this was probably the perfect alnum. Unfortuantely a couple of tracks (Stabbed and Ice Cream Van)at the end of the album lost their way. However this couldn't be anything other than a 5 star review as the preceding tracks are just outstanding.

Having been a Pete Wylie/Wah fan for years I didn't expect anything to surpass his "wall of sound" on Story of the Blues. Sorry Pete this does it for me.

Please don't think I'm inferring that Glasvegas have copied the sound. They stand on their own.

Can I pre-order their second album now!!

Brave and Moving Debut, 15 Oct 2008
Like many I heard the plaintive Daddy's Gone last year and was moved by it's emotional punch and deft songwriting. Further investigations confirmed that Glasvegas have a number of exceptional songs which really move the listeners. Obvious references are the Jesus and Mary Chain and Phil Spector and they are mined for their full potential but this album is much braver than just Ronettes imitation for a number of reasons: 1. A number of the tracks feature long ambient sequences which build slowly and demand something of the listener before breaking out into the poppier side of the band - in fact the first couple of minutes of the album are an example! 2. James's decision to keep the raw Weejie brogue may have won him some fans in Scotland but could have lost some in other places - I think it's spot on and gives the work a more sincere feel. 3. Finally, the material is nothing less than challenging [Social Work, Depression, Casual Violence] but at the same time greatly uplifting. I'm told that they signed their current deal with the proviso that the second album would be a full-fledge Christmas album - what an album that is going to be! Phil Spector look out... All in all a powerful debut and well-worth buying - love, Neil

Our obsession with the weather has long been entrenched in the national psyche, but rarely--if ever--has it had so very much influence over the fortunes of one music career. But in the same way that it supposedly informs our resolute British demeanour (and capacity for standing hail-lashed in queues), seldom have we seen a band quite as stoic in the face of diminishing interest. Travis' existence, in spite of a decent smattering of personable successes, begins and ends with the enduring popularity of "Why Does It Always Rain on Me?" and those festival sets at the turn of the century that celebrated career-defining downpours. Everything before and after, with a couple of brief exceptions, became mere footnotes. Agreeable albums hung off an agreeable single or two continue to come and go, but sixth album Ode to J. Smith is a rarity for Travis in that it wholeheartedly answers their original manifesto--namely "All I Wanna Do Is Rock". Well and truly plugged back in after a decade of polite acoustic dalliances "J. Smith" condenses a fit of prog-rock audacity down to a surprisingly effective three minute pop song and "Something Anything" thrashes out a guitar solo to conduct the lightening. The banjo-waltz of "Last Words" and piano lament of "Before We Were Young" may tip their hat at the pocket-sized Travis of old, but even those songs burst with certainty from beneath their beige woollens before they're done. No longer should they be considered musical "Driftwood", then. --James Berry

At last a band with authenticity, 17 Nov 2008
In an entertainment business full of faked stance and faux emotion, all of a sudden something REAL has come along. Glasvegas are tough, rough around the edges but ultimately this is the genuinely most affecting releases not just in 2008 but for many years.

Let's be clear about this, 'Glasvegas' aren't romanticised 'loser' jangle from the bedroom of a semi-detached, this is raw anguish, the sound of souls being shreaded by the dismal reality of life on the streets of the East End of Glasgow. The album covers such topics as gang violence, disfunctional families and perhaps most of all the utter desperation of the poverty trap and the yearning for a better life.

If all this sounds a little dreary, like a Ken Loach film set to music, then it is most definitely not. Glasvegas takes you through the spectrum of human emotions and back again.

Heart breaking music if ever there was.

Tidal Wave Of Hype, 17 Nov 2008
Tidal wave of hype blah blah ******* blah.

Was the hype justified? Well that depends on what you mean by 'hype' - if a record company signs a new band they like, then they will always try to sell them - that's their job. In that respect hype is always justified.

Whether the band lives up to the hype is another matter. I was going to buy this on day of release but didn't - the hype was too far above the plimsol line.

So I waited a couple of months, still interested to hear it:

Thematically Glasvegas is a very heavy LP - it's got the kind of full-on unflinching 'rock and roll - deal with it' vibe that Unknown Pleasures had. This pretty much makes it the diameter opposite of bands like Coldplay, whose discontent seems to stem from paradise syndrome and misplaced earnestness.

Trackwise I'd have to say there's nothing here that is less than very good, with occasional bits of brilliance - my fave track being S.A.D. Light. A proper anthem for anyone who lives north of Kent.

Glasvegas were on a fine line with this LP - at times they get dangerously close to greeting sentimentality territory but somehow the deftness of the lyrics and the understated musicianship pull it back from the edge.

The problem with hype is that it doesn't convey the scope of a record. And the hype (true to form) doesn't really give an idea of how remarkable this release is. And it's not perfect, although if I ever heard a perfect record it would probably be by idiots and only merit one star.

MEGA!!!, 06 Nov 2008
the music, the lyrics, the guitars, the drums, the voice!! everything about this album is MEGA!! buy it!!!

If you like Pete Wylie you'll love this!, 16 Oct 2008
I caught "Daddy's Gone" on the radio back in August. I don't listen to Radio 1 any more but I was in a friend's car and this just stood head and shoulders above anything else was hearing on the station. I just had to have it.

Listening from the start I thought this was probably the perfect alnum. Unfortuantely a couple of tracks (Stabbed and Ice Cream Van)at the end of the album lost their way. However this couldn't be anything other than a 5 star review as the preceding tracks are just outstanding.

Having been a Pete Wylie/Wah fan for years I didn't expect anything to surpass his "wall of sound" on Story of the Blues. Sorry Pete this does it for me.

Please don't think I'm inferring that Glasvegas have copied the sound. They stand on their own.

Can I pre-order their second album now!!

Brave and Moving Debut, 15 Oct 2008
Like many I heard the plaintive Daddy's Gone last year and was moved by it's emotional punch and deft songwriting. Further investigations confirmed that Glasvegas have a number of exceptional songs which really move the listeners. Obvious references are the Jesus and Mary Chain and Phil Spector and they are mined for their full potential but this album is much braver than just Ronettes imitation for a number of reasons: 1. A number of the tracks feature long ambient sequences which build slowly and demand something of the listener before breaking out into the poppier side of the band - in fact the first couple of minutes of the album are an example! 2. James's decision to keep the raw Weejie brogue may have won him some fans in Scotland but could have lost some in other places - I think it's spot on and gives the work a more sincere feel. 3. Finally, the material is nothing less than challenging [Social Work, Depression, Casual Violence] but at the same time greatly uplifting. I'm told that they signed their current deal with the proviso that the second album would be a full-fledge Christmas album - what an album that is going to be! Phil Spector look out... All in all a powerful debut and well-worth buying - love, Neil

the edgier side of Travis, 30 Oct 2008
I have to admit Travis has never totally sold me. The music has been very easy-listening and not particularly exciting...sort of like Take That. I bought this cd because I dj and need to have the newest material by British contemporary artists. I popped it on in the car and was surprised to hear an edgier (though not together appealing) on the opening tracks. I persevered and continued to listen and about half-way through the cd I found some songs I really liked a lot. The acoustic based "Gotta Get Up" is very catchy and instantly singable...this is my favorite track. My other favorite "Friends" has more of that signature Travis sound but the lyrics are so lovely that it sucked me in.All in all it's a very listenable cd and worth your time.

Rather different from the last one, 08 Oct 2008
This album has been given 4 stars mainly because I do not find it as "instant" as their last album The Boy With No Name, which in my opinion is their best to date. This album starts with the oriental sounding guitars on Chinese Blues. The track J. Smith I find a little hard to get into at the moment, but I am sure will grow to like it in time. The album really starts to pick up with the very catchy Last Words, which is followed by the very melodic Quite Free. One of my favourite tracks is saved until the end with Before You Were Young, with that lovely piano thrown in for good measure. I would class this album alongside the grittyness of their debut Good Feeling and the darker sound of their 2003 album 12 memories. I suppose I am a bit biased as I saw them on their forest tour to promote the wonderful The Boy With No Name album in 2007. I am sure (as with 12 Memories) that this album is a grower which I will grow to love.

Wow!, 08 Oct 2008
Unexpected. It is brilliant. I checked out the reviews on Wikipedia and noticed the strong reviews. Quite Free, Song To Self, Chinese Blues, Before You Were Young are all in my top 10 Travis songs at least. And they sound amazing on the ears. But songs like Broken Mirror, Last Words, Friends are also really brilliant. The only let down is Get Up, and even that's ok. If you've ever liked Travis, i recommend this. It is definitely their best album since The Invisible Band. Just a shame to see it drop down the charts so quickly because this is the best album of the year. Bland? Dull? Boring? Not with this! The songs are up on Travis' MySpace so give it a listen. Great to have you back Travis.

Ode to F. Healy (and the other three), 07 Oct 2008
What a nice suprise this was, i didnt even know they were releasing a new album and then i saw it on the shelf and just bought it! a wonderful story, i know.. and a wonderful album aswell! no duds here, Chinese Blues is one heck of a song.. well theyre all very good, i think my favourite is Friends and im not sure why, anyway... buy the album, you wont regret it!

New sound, but suceeded with style!, 07 Oct 2008
For me this album has been longly awaited! The 3 singles (J. Smith, Something Anything, and Song to Self) set this album up to be amazing, and the lads from Travis have certainly not dissapointed!
They have changed their sound quite abit, introduced more instruments and digital backing , all bringing it together to have quite a rough, yet complex and mastered sound.
I strongly recommend this album as it is, in my opinion, one of the best albums this year!

He has a voice made of vintage leather, probably sprinkles tobacco on his cornflakes, cut his rock-incisors in the Screaming Trees and Queens of the Stone Age and is currently also one half of post-grunge supergroup The Gutter Twins. She has a voice like a mild summer breeze whistling through a meadow and once drizzled aural honey over Belle & Sebastian's twee indie-pop. It's like a marriage made from a Hell's Angel and waiflike virgin choirgirl--you can just imagine the disparaging looks from the vicar. But as Isobel Campbell and Mark Lanegan renew the vows originally made on a porch swing with 2006's well received bout of twilight Americana, Ballad of the Broken Seas, this follow-up can be brandished as proof that opposites don't only attract, but can grow together even as they grow apart. See, on Sunday at Devil Dirt Lanegan's weighty presence expands to a point where it obscures the moon--especially on "The Raven" and "Back Burner" where his Johnny Cash/Tom Waits croak reaches optimum levels of exaggeration--as Campbell flits further into the background, weaving between Morricone-esque, spaghetti western strings and sewing a beautiful ethereal quality into the seams. And such vocal juxtapositions make for intoxicating harmonies and stark, memorable impressions. But there is still also a real gentle magic to be found when they operate on an equal footing, as on "Trouble" or the sultry "Come on Over (Turn Me On)", the latter begging to be a James Bond theme. --James Berry

At last a band with authenticity, 17 Nov 2008
In an entertainment business full of faked stance and faux emotion, all of a sudden something REAL has come along. Glasvegas are tough, rough around the edges but ultimately this is the genuinely most affecting releases not just in 2008 but for many years.

Let's be clear about this, 'Glasvegas' aren't romanticised 'loser' jangle from the bedroom of a semi-detached, this is raw anguish, the sound of souls being shreaded by the dismal reality of life on the streets of the East End of Glasgow. The album covers such topics as gang violence, disfunctional families and perhaps most of all the utter desperation of the poverty trap and the yearning for a better life.

If all this sounds a little dreary, like a Ken Loach film set to music, then it is most definitely not. Glasvegas takes you through the spectrum of human emotions and back again.

Heart breaking music if ever there was.

Tidal Wave Of Hype, 17 Nov 2008
Tidal wave of hype blah blah ******* blah.

Was the hype justified? Well that depends on what you mean by 'hype' - if a record company signs a new band they like, then they will always try to sell them - that's their job. In that respect hype is always justified.

Whether the band lives up to the hype is another matter. I was going to buy this on day of release but didn't - the hype was too far above the plimsol line.

So I waited a couple of months, still interested to hear it:

Thematically Glasvegas is a very heavy LP - it's got the kind of full-on unflinching 'rock and roll - deal with it' vibe that Unknown Pleasures had. This pretty much makes it the diameter opposite of bands like Coldplay, whose discontent seems to stem from paradise syndrome and misplaced earnestness.

Trackwise I'd have to say there's nothing here that is less than very good, with occasional bits of brilliance - my fave track being S.A.D. Light. A proper anthem for anyone who lives north of Kent.

Glasvegas were on a fine line with this LP - at times they get dangerously close to greeting sentimentality territory but somehow the deftness of the lyrics and the understated musicianship pull it back from the edge.

The problem with hype is that it doesn't convey the scope of a record. And the hype (true to form) doesn't really give an idea of how remarkable this release is. And it's not perfect, although if I ever heard a perfect record it would probably be by idiots and only merit one star.

MEGA!!!, 06 Nov 2008
the music, the lyrics, the guitars, the drums, the voice!! everything about this album is MEGA!! buy it!!!

If you like Pete Wylie you'll love this!, 16 Oct 2008
I caught "Daddy's Gone" on the radio back in August. I don't listen to Radio 1 any more but I was in a friend's car and this just stood head and shoulders above anything else was hearing on the station. I just had to have it.

Listening from the start I thought this was probably the perfect alnum. Unfortuantely a couple of tracks (Stabbed and Ice Cream Van)at the end of the album lost their way. However this couldn't be anything other than a 5 star review as the preceding tracks are just outstanding.

Having been a Pete Wylie/Wah fan for years I didn't expect anything to surpass his "wall of sound" on Story of the Blues. Sorry Pete this does it for me.

Please don't think I'm inferring that Glasvegas have copied the sound. They stand on their own.

Can I pre-order their second album now!!

Brave and Moving Debut, 15 Oct 2008
Like many I heard the plaintive Daddy's Gone last year and was moved by it's emotional punch and deft songwriting. Further investigations confirmed that Glasvegas have a number of exceptional songs which really move the listeners. Obvious references are the Jesus and Mary Chain and Phil Spector and they are mined for their full potential but this album is much braver than just Ronettes imitation for a number of reasons: 1. A number of the tracks feature long ambient sequences which build slowly and demand something of the listener before breaking out into the poppier side of the band - in fact the first couple of minutes of the album are an example! 2. James's decision to keep the raw Weejie brogue may have won him some fans in Scotland but could have lost some in other places - I think it's spot on and gives the work a more sincere feel. 3. Finally, the material is nothing less than challenging [Social Work, Depression, Casual Violence] but at the same time greatly uplifting. I'm told that they signed their current deal with the proviso that the second album would be a full-fledge Christmas album - what an album that is going to be! Phil Spector look out... All in all a powerful debut and well-worth buying - love, Neil

the edgier side of Travis, 30 Oct 2008
I have to admit Travis has never totally sold me. The music has been very easy-listening and not particularly exciting...sort of like Take That. I bought this cd because I dj and need to have the newest material by British contemporary artists. I popped it on in the car and was surprised to hear an edgier (though not together appealing) on the opening tracks. I persevered and continued to listen and about half-way through the cd I found some songs I really liked a lot. The acoustic based "Gotta Get Up" is very catchy and instantly singable...this is my favorite track. My other favorite "Friends" has more of that signature Travis sound but the lyrics are so lovely that it sucked me in.All in all it's a very listenable cd and worth your time.

Rather different from the last one, 08 Oct 2008
This album has been given 4 stars mainly because I do not find it as "instant" as their last album The Boy With No Name, which in my opinion is their best to date. This album starts with the oriental sounding guitars on Chinese Blues. The track J. Smith I find a little hard to get into at the moment, but I am sure will grow to like it in time. The album really starts to pick up with the very catchy Last Words, which is followed by the very melodic Quite Free. One of my favourite tracks is saved until the end with Before You Were Young, with that lovely piano thrown in for good measure. I would class this album alongside the grittyness of their debut Good Feeling and the darker sound of their 2003 album 12 memories. I suppose I am a bit biased as I saw them on their forest tour to promote the wonderful The Boy With No Name album in 2007. I am sure (as with 12 Memories) that this album is a grower which I will grow to love.

Wow!, 08 Oct 2008
Unexpected. It is brilliant. I checked out the reviews on Wikipedia and noticed the strong reviews. Quite Free, Song To Self, Chinese Blues, Before You Were Young are all in my top 10 Travis songs at least. And they sound amazing on the ears. But songs like Broken Mirror, Last Words, Friends are also really brilliant. The only let down is Get Up, and even that's ok. If you've ever liked Travis, i recommend this. It is definitely their best album since The Invisible Band. Just a shame to see it drop down the charts so quickly because this is the best album of the year. Bland? Dull? Boring? Not with this! The songs are up on Travis' MySpace so give it a listen. Great to have you back Travis.

Ode to F. Healy (and the other three), 07 Oct 2008
What a nice suprise this was, i didnt even know they were releasing a new album and then i saw it on the shelf and just bought it! a wonderful story, i know.. and a wonderful album aswell! no duds here, Chinese Blues is one heck of a song.. well theyre all very good, i think my favourite is Friends and im not sure why, anyway... buy the album, you wont regret it!

New sound, but suceeded with style!, 07 Oct 2008
For me this album has been longly awaited! The 3 singles (J. Smith, Something Anything, and Song to Self) set this album up to be amazing, and the lads from Travis have certainly not dissapointed!
They have changed their sound quite abit, introduced more instruments and digital backing , all bringing it together to have quite a rough, yet complex and mastered sound.
I strongly recommend this album as it is, in my opinion, one of the best albums this year!

Different to first album but brilliant, 24 Jul 2008
After reading some mediocre reviews of this album I was shocked when I finally heard it and it turned out that I really enjoyed listening to it. It's clearly a step away from the first album, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. This album has much more of blues, kind of Nashville Skyline-era Bob Dylan, feel to it, and I personally think that their vocals work much better together here, whereas the first album often felt like one or other of the vocal tracks had simply been 'tagged on'.

All of the tracks on this album seem to gel together very well, and although there aren't really any stand-out 'single' type tracks, I do not think that this is a bad thing at all.

It might take a few listens to really get into it, but this is well worth a few hours on a sunday afternoon. Don't expect it to be highly similar to the first album and you won't be disappointed.

Hail the King and Queen!!!!, 27 May 2008
I must say that I am very impressed by this album. I didn't appreciate the other album done by these 2 artists but this one hits the bullseye!! It has the same sort of atmosphere that is created with the Robert Plant duet album, but this cd creates much more of a relaxing atmosphere.
There isn't a weak track on this cd. Don't hesitate on buying it, even if the only reason why I bought it without even having heard a note is for the King- Mark Lanegan. As I do understand Isobel Campbell has written the majority of the material and Mark has given his final touches.
If you appreciate this album, I also suggest you buy The Gutter Twins- Saturnalia, anothe masterpiece. Take advantgae while these artists are in their highest creative veins!!! and you can say I know those guys and impress with musical culture.

Ballads of the broken seas was better, 19 May 2008
There isn't a bad song on this album ,but unfortunately there is only one really good song (Come on over). On this album I think Lanegan's vocals are more gravelly and campbell's are softer,so the contrast of vocals on this disc are stronger. On the whole this is a decent release but very downbeat and weaker than Ballads of the broken sea.

Ballad of the Broken Seas - the sequel, 19 May 2008
Basically a continuation of Ballad of the Broken Seas. If you were a fan of that album you'll like this, if you weren't then I doubt there's anything here to change your mind. My only complaint is that Isobel has such a beutiful voice it's a shame that there's not more of it on the album.

Ditch the lyrics, 14 May 2008
I agree with the previous 2 reviewers that the music is beautiful, the voices are a nice mix and the rhythmns and pace of the tunes are top quality. The real shame with this album is what appears to be the desire to make every line rhymne with the next irrespective of how weak the link to it may be. I've had to stop listening to it because it reminded me of small children's poetry.

At last a band with authenticity, 17 Nov 2008
In an entertainment business full of faked stance and faux emotion, all of a sudden something REAL has come along. Glasvegas are tough, rough around the edges but ultimately this is the genuinely most affecting releases not just in 2008 but for many years.

Let's be clear about this, 'Glasvegas' aren't romanticised 'loser' jangle from the bedroom of a semi-detached, this is raw anguish, the sound of souls being shreaded by the dismal reality of life on the streets of the East End of Glasgow. The album covers such topics as gang violence, disfunctional families and perhaps most of all the utter desperation of the poverty trap and the yearning for a better life.

If all this sounds a little dreary, like a Ken Loach film set to music, then it is most definitely not. Glasvegas takes you through the spectrum of human emotions and back again.

Heart breaking music if ever there was.

Tidal Wave Of Hype, 17 Nov 2008
Tidal wave of hype blah blah ******* blah.

Was the hype justified? Well that depends on what you mean by 'hype' - if a record company signs a new band they like, then they will always try to sell them - that's their job. In that respect hype is always justified.

Whether the band lives up to the hype is another matter. I was going to buy this on day of release but didn't - the hype was too far above the plimsol line.

So I waited a couple of months, still interested to hear it:

Thematically Glasvegas is a very heavy LP - it's got the kind of full-on unflinching 'rock and roll - deal with it' vibe that Unknown Pleasures had. This pretty much makes it the diameter opposite of bands like Coldplay, whose discontent seems to stem from paradise syndrome and misplaced earnestness.

Trackwise I'd have to say there's nothing here that is less than very good, with occasional bits of brilliance - my fave track being S.A.D. Light. A proper anthem for anyone who lives north of Kent.

Glasvegas were on a fine line with this LP - at times they get dangerously close to greeting sentimentality territory but somehow the deftness of the lyrics and the understated musicianship pull it back from the edge.

The problem with hype is that it doesn't convey the scope of a record. And the hype (true to form) doesn't really give an idea of how remarkable this release is. And it's not perfect, although if I ever heard a perfect record it would probably be by idiots and only merit one star.

MEGA!!!, 06 Nov 2008
the music, the lyrics, the guitars, the drums, the voice!! everything about this album is MEGA!! buy it!!!

If you like Pete Wylie you'll love this!, 16 Oct 2008
I caught "Daddy's Gone" on the radio back in August. I don't listen to Radio 1 any more but I was in a friend's car and this just stood head and shoulders above anything else was hearing on the station. I just had to have it.

Listening from the start I thought this was probably the perfect alnum. Unfortuantely a couple of tracks (Stabbed and Ice Cream Van)at the end of the album lost their way. However this couldn't be anything other than a 5 star review as the preceding tracks are just outstanding.

Having been a Pete Wylie/Wah fan for years I didn't expect anything to surpass his "wall of sound" on Story of the Blues. Sorry Pete this does it for me.

Please don't think I'm inferring that Glasvegas have copied the sound. They stand on their own.

Can I pre-order their second album now!!

Brave and Moving Debut, 15 Oct 2008
Like many I heard the plaintive Daddy's Gone last year and was moved by it's emotional punch and deft songwriting. Further investigations confirmed that Glasvegas have a number of exceptional songs which really move the listeners. Obvious references are the Jesus and Mary Chain and Phil Spector and they are mined for their full potential but this album is much braver than just Ronettes imitation for a number of reasons: 1. A number of the tracks feature long ambient sequences which build slowly and demand something of the listener before breaking out into the poppier side of the band - in fact the first couple of minutes of the album are an example! 2. James's decision to keep the raw Weejie brogue may have won him some fans in Scotland but could have lost some in other places - I think it's spot on and gives the work a more sincere feel. 3. Finally, the material is nothing less than challenging [Social Work, Depression, Casual Violence] but at the same time greatly uplifting. I'm told that they signed their current deal with the proviso that the second album would be a full-fledge Christmas album - what an album that is going to be! Phil Spector look out... All in all a powerful debut and well-worth buying - love, Neil

the edgier side of Travis, 30 Oct 2008
I have to admit Travis has never totally sold me. The music has been very easy-listening and not particularly exciting...sort of like Take That. I bought this cd because I dj and need to have the newest material by British contemporary artists. I popped it on in the car and was surprised to hear an edgier (though not together appealing) on the opening tracks. I persevered and continued to listen and about half-way through the cd I found some songs I really liked a lot. The acoustic based "Gotta Get Up" is very catchy and instantly singable...this is my favorite track. My other favorite "Friends" has more of that signature Travis sound but the lyrics are so lovely that it sucked me in.All in all it's a very listenable cd and worth your time.

Rather different from the last one, 08 Oct 2008
This album has been given 4 stars mainly because I do not find it as "instant" as their last album The Boy With No Name, which in my opinion is their best to date. This album starts with the oriental sounding guitars on Chinese Blues. The track J. Smith I find a little hard to get into at the moment, but I am sure will grow to like it in time. The album really starts to pick up with the very catchy Last Words, which is followed by the very melodic Quite Free. One of my favourite tracks is saved until the end with Before You Were Young, with that lovely piano thrown in for good measure. I would class this album alongside the grittyness of their debut Good Feeling and the darker sound of their 2003 album 12 memories. I suppose I am a bit biased as I saw them on their forest tour to promote the wonderful The Boy With No Name album in 2007. I am sure (as with 12 Memories) that this album is a grower which I will grow to love.

Wow!, 08 Oct 2008
Unexpected. It is brilliant. I checked out the reviews on Wikipedia and noticed the strong reviews. Quite Free, Song To Self, Chinese Blues, Before You Were Young are all in my top 10 Travis songs at least. And they sound amazing on the ears. But songs like Broken Mirror, Last Words, Friends are also really brilliant. The only let down is Get Up, and even that's ok. If you've ever liked Travis, i recommend this. It is definitely their best album since The Invisible Band. Just a shame to see it drop down the charts so quickly because this is the best album of the year. Bland? Dull? Boring? Not with this! The songs are up on Travis' MySpace so give it a listen. Great to have you back Travis.

Ode to F. Healy (and the other three), 07 Oct 2008
What a nice suprise this was, i didnt even know they were releasing a new album and then i saw it on the shelf and just bought it! a wonderful story, i know.. and a wonderful album aswell! no duds here, Chinese Blues is one heck of a song.. well theyre all very good, i think my favourite is Friends and im not sure why, anyway... buy the album, you wont regret it!

New sound, but suceeded with style!, 07 Oct 2008
For me this album has been longly awaited! The 3 singles (J. Smith, Something Anything, and Song to Self) set this album up to be amazing, and the lads from Travis have certainly not dissapointed!
They have changed their sound quite abit, introduced more instruments and digital backing , all bringing it together to have quite a rough, yet complex and mastered sound.
I strongly recommend this album as it is, in my opinion, one of the best albums this year!

Different to first album but brilliant, 24 Jul 2008
After reading some mediocre reviews of this album I was shocked when I finally heard it and it turned out that I really enjoyed listening to it. It's clearly a step away from the first album, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. This album has much more of blues, kind of Nashville Skyline-era Bob Dylan, feel to it, and I personally think that their vocals work much better together here, whereas the first album often felt like one or other of the vocal tracks had simply been 'tagged on'.

All of the tracks on this album seem to gel together very well, and although there aren't really any stand-out 'single' type tracks, I do not think that this is a bad thing at all.

It might take a few listens to really get into it, but this is well worth a few hours on a sunday afternoon. Don't expect it to be highly similar to the first album and you won't be disappointed.

Hail the King and Queen!!!!, 27 May 2008
I must say that I am very impressed by this album. I didn't appreciate the other album done by these 2 artists but this one hits the bullseye!! It has the same sort of atmosphere that is created with the Robert Plant duet album, but this cd creates much more of a relaxing atmosphere.
There isn't a weak track on this cd. Don't hesitate on buying it, even if the only reason why I bought it without even having heard a note is for the King- Mark Lanegan. As I do understand Isobel Campbell has written the majority of the material and Mark has given his final touches.
If you appreciate this album, I also suggest you buy The Gutter Twins- Saturnalia, anothe masterpiece. Take advantgae while these artists are in their highest creative veins!!! and you can say I know those guys and impress with musical culture.

Ballads of the broken seas was better, 19 May 2008
There isn't a bad song on this album ,but unfortunately there is only one really good song (Come on over). On this album I think Lanegan's vocals are more gravelly and campbell's are softer,so the contrast of vocals on this disc are stronger. On the whole this is a decent release but very downbeat and weaker than Ballads of the broken sea.

Ballad of the Broken Seas - the sequel, 19 May 2008
Basically a continuation of Ballad of the Broken Seas. If you were a fan of that album you'll like this, if you weren't then I doubt there's anything here to change your mind. My only complaint is that Isobel has such a beutiful voice it's a shame that there's not more of it on the album.

Ditch the lyrics, 14 May 2008
I agree with the previous 2 reviewers that the music is beautiful, the voices are a nice mix and the rhythmns and pace of the tunes are top quality. The real shame with this album is what appears to be the desire to make every line rhymne with the next irrespective of how weak the link to it may be. I've had to stop listening to it because it reminded me of small children's poetry.

Excellent album., 17 Nov 2008
The title of this album "Bagrock to the masses" is certiantly appropriate. The Red Hot Chilli Pipers have brought piping from a niche market out to a much wider audience.
Even those who aren't keen on pipe music will enjoy this album.

Bagpipes for the 21st Century !, 14 Dec 2007
An album that finally puts bagpipes on the map - and not just the Scottish map. This band has artfully crafted the bagpipes with incredibly powerful percussion sounds, pounding base guitar, haunting vocals and incredibly rhythmic keyboard backing. An unusual and instantly engaging compilation of traditional Scottish tunes mixed with more modern pop classics all given a distinctive Celtic twist. Never a fan of traditional pipe band music I have seen pipe music in a whole new light and can finally turn up the volume on this new and exciting evolution of an instrument that dates back at least 2,000 years. This album will rekindle everyones "Celtic heart" and leave you breathless as you get swept along on the sheer energy and enthusiasm of the music. Can't wait to see this band live!

Chilli pipers red hot in winter., 23 Nov 2007
If you are a piping or traditional music purist I can guarantee this album is NOT for you. If you have the Chilli's first album( I do!) then you are in for something completely different.
A rich mixture of rock classics as you have never heard them before and arrangements that really work. The recording itself is technically perfect with bigh deep basses and high pitches of the pipes. There is of course something for everyone and there is a wee extra track at the end, just what you need for a Hogmanay party. A couple of Scottish classics are also provided.
I admit this album may not be to everyone's taste but then you just can't please them all. How they will top this with their next album remains to be seen.
Have you oredered your copy??

Awesome!, 22 Nov 2007
Fantastic CD. Brings new life to the world of piping, innovative, uplifting and really enjoyable. Some excellent Rock classics and traditional sounds with a twist.

Bringing Tradition into the Now....with style., 21 Nov 2007
An exciting, innovative piece of work from a group of enthusiastic instrumentalists, bringing together the old and new from the worlds of scottish traditional and contempory folk and that of rock/power ballad.

Sure to bring bagpipes and scottish music in general into the forefront of the minds of the general public and keen music enthusiasts alike.

Top Class

At last a band with authenticity, 17 Nov 2008
In an entertainment business full of faked stance and faux emotion, all of a sudden something REAL has come along. Glasvegas are tough, rough around the edges but ultimately this is the genuinely most affecting releases not just in 2008 but for many years.

Let's be clear about this, 'Glasvegas' aren't romanticised 'loser' jangle from the bedroom of a semi-detached, this is raw anguish, the sound of souls being shreaded by the dismal reality of life on the streets of the East End of Glasgow. The album covers such topics as gang violence, disfunctional families and perhaps most of all the utter desperation of the poverty trap and the yearning for a better life.

If all this sounds a little dreary, like a Ken Loach film set to music, then it is most definitely not. Glasvegas takes you through the spectrum of human emotions and back again.

Heart breaking music if ever there was.

Tidal Wave Of Hype, 17 Nov 2008
Tidal wave of hype blah blah ******* blah.

Was the hype justified? Well that depends on what you mean by 'hype' - if a record company signs a new band they like, then they will always try to sell them - that's their job. In that respect hype is always justified.

Whether the band lives up to the hype is another matter. I was going to buy this on day of release but didn't - the hype was too far above the plimsol line.

So I waited a couple of months, still interested to hear it:

Thematically Glasvegas is a very heavy LP - it's got the kind of full-on unflinching 'rock and roll - deal with it' vibe that Unknown Pleasures had. This pretty much makes it the diameter opposite of bands like Coldplay, whose discontent seems to stem from paradise syndrome and misplaced earnestness.

Trackwise I'd have to say there's nothing here that is less than very good, with occasional bits of brilliance - my fave track being S.A.D. Light. A proper anthem for anyone who lives north of Kent.

Glasvegas were on a fine line with this LP - at times they get dangerously close to greeting sentimentality territory but somehow the deftness of the lyrics and the understated musicianship pull it back from the edge.

The problem with hype is that it doesn't convey the scope of a record. And the hype (true to form) doesn't really give an idea of how remarkable this release is. And it's not perfect, although if I ever heard a perfect record it would probably be by idiots and only merit one star.

MEGA!!!, 06 Nov 2008
the music, the lyrics, the guitars, the drums, the voice!! everything about this album is MEGA!! buy it!!!

If you like Pete Wylie you'll love this!, 16 Oct 2008
I caught "Daddy's Gone" on the radio back in August. I don't listen to Radio 1 any more but I was in a friend's car and this just stood head and shoulders above anything else was hearing on the station. I just had to have it.

Listening from the start I thought this was probably the perfect alnum. Unfortuantely a couple of tracks (Stabbed and Ice Cream Van)at the end of the album lost their way. However this couldn't be anything other than a 5 star review as the preceding tracks are just outstanding.

Having been a Pete Wylie/Wah fan for years I didn't expect anything to surpass his "wall of sound" on Story of the Blues. Sorry Pete this does it for me.

Please don't think I'm inferring that Glasvegas have copied the sound. They stand on their own.

Can I pre-order their second album now!!

Brave and Moving Debut, 15 Oct 2008
Like many I heard the plaintive Daddy's Gone last year and was moved by it's emotional punch and deft songwriting. Further investigations confirmed that Glasvegas have a number of exceptional songs which really move the listeners. Obvious references are the Jesus and Mary Chain and Phil Spector and they are mined for their full potential but this album is much braver than just Ronettes imitation for a number of reasons: 1. A number of the tracks feature long ambient sequences which build slowly and demand something of the listener before breaking out into the poppier side of the band - in fact the first couple of minutes of the album are an example! 2. James's decision to keep the raw Weejie brogue may have won him some fans in Scotland but could have lost some in other places - I think it's spot on and gives the work a more sincere feel. 3. Finally, the material is nothing less than challenging [Social Work, Depression, Casual Violence] but at the same time greatly uplifting. I'm told that they signed their current deal with the proviso that the second album would be a full-fledge Christmas album - what an album that is going to be! Phil Spector look out... All in all a powerful debut and well-worth buying - love, Neil

the edgier side of Travis, 30 Oct 2008
I have to admit Travis has never totally sold me. The music has been very easy-listening and not particularly exciting...sort of like Take That. I bought this cd because I dj and need to have the newest material by British contemporary artists. I popped it on in the car and was surprised to hear an edgier (though not together appealing) on the opening tracks. I persevered and continued to listen and about half-way through the cd I found some songs I really liked a lot. The acoustic based "Gotta Get Up" is very catchy and instantly singable...this is my favorite track. My other favorite "Friends" has more of that signature Travis sound but the lyrics are so lovely that it sucked me in.All in all it's a very listenable cd and worth your time.

Rather different from the last one, 08 Oct 2008
This album has been given 4 stars mainly because I do not find it as "instant" as their last album The Boy With No Name, which in my opinion is their best to date. This album starts with the oriental sounding guitars on Chinese Blues. The track J. Smith I find a little hard to get into at the moment, but I am sure will grow to like it in time. The album really starts to pick up with the very catchy Last Words, which is followed by the very melodic Quite Free. One of my favourite tracks is saved until the end with Before You Were Young, with that lovely piano thrown in for good measure. I would class this album alongside the grittyness of their debut Good Feeling and the darker sound of their 2003 album 12 memories. I suppose I am a bit biased as I saw them on their forest tour to promote the wonderful The Boy With No Name album in 2007. I am sure (as with 12 Memories) that this album is a grower which I will grow to love.

Wow!, 08 Oct 2008
Unexpected. It is brilliant. I checked out the reviews on Wikipedia and noticed the strong reviews. Quite Free, Song To Self, Chinese Blues, Before You Were Young are all in my top 10 Travis songs at least. And they sound amazing on the ears. But songs like Broken Mirror, Last Words, Friends are also really brilliant. The only let down is Get Up, and even that's ok. If you've ever liked Travis, i recommend this. It is definitely their best album since The Invisible Band. Just a shame to see it drop down the charts so quickly because this is the best album of the year. Bland? Dull? Boring? Not with this! The songs are up on Travis' MySpace so give it a listen. Great to have you back Travis.

Ode to F. Healy (and the other three), 07 Oct 2008
What a nice suprise this was, i didnt even know they were releasing a new album and then i saw it on the shelf and just bought it! a wonderful story, i know.. and a wonderful album aswell! no duds here, Chinese Blues is one heck of a song.. well theyre all very good, i think my favourite is Friends and im not sure why, anyway... buy the album, you wont regret it!

New sound, but suceeded with style!, 07 Oct 2008
For me this album has been longly awaited! The 3 singles (J. Smith, Something Anything, and Song to Self) set this album up to be amazing, and the lads from Travis have certainly not dissapointed!
They have changed their sound quite abit, introduced more instruments and digital backing , all bringing it together to have quite a rough, yet complex and mastered sound.
I strongly recommend this album as it is, in my opinion, one of the best albums this year!

Different to first album but brilliant, 24 Jul 2008
After reading some mediocre reviews of this album I was shocked when I finally heard it and it turned out that I really enjoyed listening to it. It's clearly a step away from the first album, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. This album has much more of blues, kind of Nashville Skyline-era Bob Dylan, feel to it, and I personally think that their vocals work much better together here, whereas the first album often felt like one or other of the vocal tracks had simply been 'tagged on'.

All of the tracks on this album seem to gel together very well, and although there aren't really any stand-out 'single' type tracks, I do not think that this is a bad thing at all.

It might take a few listens to really get into it, but this is well worth a few hours on a sunday afternoon. Don't expect it to be highly similar to the first album and you won't be disappointed.

Hail the King and Queen!!!!, 27 May 2008
I must say that I am very impressed by this album. I didn't appreciate the other album done by these 2 artists but this one hits the bullseye!! It has the same sort of atmosphere that is created with the Robert Plant duet album, but this cd creates much more of a relaxing atmosphere.
There isn't a weak track on this cd. Don't hesitate on buying it, even if the only reason why I bought it without even having heard a note is for the King- Mark Lanegan. As I do understand Isobel Campbell has written the majority of the material and Mark has given his final touches.
If you appreciate this album, I also suggest you buy The Gutter Twins- Saturnalia, anothe masterpiece. Take advantgae while these artists are in their highest creative veins!!! and you can say I know those guys and impress with musical culture.

Ballads of the broken seas was better, 19 May 2008
There isn't a bad song on this album ,but unfortunately there is only one really good song (Come on over). On this album I think Lanegan's vocals are more gravelly and campbell's are softer,so the contrast of vocals on this disc are stronger. On the whole this is a decent release but very downbeat and weaker than Ballads of the broken sea.

Ballad of the Broken Seas - the sequel, 19 May 2008
Basically a continuation of Ballad of the Broken Seas. If you were a fan of that album you'll like this, if you weren't then I doubt there's anything here to change your mind. My only complaint is that Isobel has such a beutiful voice it's a shame that there's not more of it on the album.

Ditch the lyrics, 14 May 2008
I agree with the previous 2 reviewers that the music is beautiful, the voices are a nice mix and the rhythmns and pace of the tunes are top quality. The real shame with this album is what appears to be the desire to make every line rhymne with the next irrespective of how weak the link to it may be. I've had to stop listening to it because it reminded me of small children's poetry.

Excellent album., 17 Nov 2008
The title of this album "Bagrock to the masses" is certiantly appropriate. The Red Hot Chilli Pipers have brought piping from a niche market out to a much wider audience.
Even those who aren't keen on pipe music will enjoy this album.

Bagpipes for the 21st Century !, 14 Dec 2007
An album that finally puts bagpipes on the map - and not just the Scottish map. This band has artfully crafted the bagpipes with incredibly powerful percussion sounds, pounding base guitar, haunting vocals and incredibly rhythmic keyboard backing. An unusual and instantly engaging compilation of traditional Scottish tunes mixed with more modern pop classics all given a distinctive Celtic twist. Never a fan of traditional pipe band music I have seen pipe music in a whole new light and can finally turn up the volume on this new and exciting evolution of an instrument that dates back at least 2,000 years. This album will rekindle everyones "Celtic heart" and leave you breathless as you get swept along on the sheer energy and enthusiasm of the music. Can't wait to see this band live!

Chilli pipers red hot in winter., 23 Nov 2007
If you are a piping or traditional music purist I can guarantee this album is NOT for you. If you have the Chilli's first album( I do!) then you are in for something completely different.
A rich mixture of rock classics as you have never heard them before and arrangements that really work. The recording itself is technically perfect with bigh deep basses and high pitches of the pipes. There is of course something for everyone and there is a wee extra track at the end, just what you need for a Hogmanay party. A couple of Scottish classics are also provided.
I admit this album may not be to everyone's taste but then you just can't please them all. How they will top this with their next album remains to be seen.
Have you oredered your copy??

Awesome!, 22 Nov 2007
Fantastic CD. Brings new life to the world of piping, innovative, uplifting and really enjoyable. Some excellent Rock classics and traditional sounds with a twist.

Bringing Tradition into the Now....with style., 21 Nov 2007
An exciting, innovative piece of work from a group of enthusiastic instrumentalists, bringing together the old and new from the worlds of scottish traditional and contempory folk and that of rock/power ballad.

Sure to bring bagpipes and scottish music in general into the forefront of the minds of the general public and keen music enthusiasts alike.

Top Class

dissapointing, 10 Sep 2008
Very ,very dissapointed with this CD, heard a bit on classic FM, rushed out to buy it, There have been 100s of albums with pipes and drums, and I though being The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards it would be superior. I regret having spent my money on this CD. look for budget CDs of pipe music, you will probably get the real thing, and much better.

great, 05 Jun 2008
i must admit i was nota bagpipe person, infact i hated them .i got my fiance this for his christmas and i love it, its relaxing and calming and very special to the both of us.

Refreshing, 31 May 2008
This CD is so refreshing, so relaxing, inspirational and a joy to listen to. This CD is one listen to as I move about the house or driving along in the car.

Bag Pipes like never before, 28 May 2008
I have purchased Bag pipe cd's before and they didnt quite set the mark. I saw this title advertised on the tv and thought wow that sounds really different to the ones i had heard before. so after a while i came to amazon and delved in and brought it i am truly amazed by the sheer beauty. The bag pipes are truly made by the backing band of trumpets and other brass. let your emotions run free and let the musin fill your heart with love peace and joy by buying this peice of musical art today.

disappointed, 19 Feb 2008
To me the smooth orchestration detracts from the sharp sound of the bagpipes. Perhaps it might grow on me if I can bear to listen to it a few more times but really I wish I'd gone for a purely bagpipe album in the first place. There is also some singing on the album which doesn't seem to fit in either. And never have I heard such a weird version of Pachelbel's Canon. It's a very strange mixture of sounds that's not to my personal taste, though others obviously like it as the album has sold so well. Oh, and the CD arrived from Amazon with a cracked case. I am very disappointed with the whole thing.

If at first, Mogwai's sixth album The Hawk Is Howling feels mostly remarkable for its song titles--what other quote-unquote 'experimental' band would christen their majestic soundscapes with names like "Daphne and the Brain", "The Sun Smells Too Loud", or "I Love You, I'm Going to Blow up Your School"?--repeated listens see this record find a neat place in the band's canon, somewhere between the sonic bliss of Happy Songs for Happy People and the intricate melancholia of Mr Beast. Solely instrumental, it's an album that follows the latter-day Mogwai template of gently undulating peaks and troughs, rather than mountains and precipices. Which might sound less than scintillating, but these days Mogwai are less about dynamite dynamics and more about intricate melodies and songs that slowly, but grandly, wind their way to conclusions. The opening "I'm Jim Morrison, I'm Dead" starts with a gentle minor-key keyboard piece by Barry Burns, but gradually builds in mass to a white-out of sparkling guitars. "The Sun Smells Too Loud" is a more synthetic-sounding piece doused in thick, fuzzy effects and yearning melodies. Meanwhile, "Batcat" proves the band can still flex a muscle, a squalling barnstormer with a Hassidic-tinged melody that recalls "My Father, My King". --Louis Pattison

At last a band with authenticity, 17 Nov 2008
In an entertainment business full of faked stance and faux emotion, all of a sudden something REAL has come along. Glasvegas are tough, rough around the edges but ultimately this is the genuinely most affecting releases not just in 2008 but for many years.

Let's be clear about this, 'Glasvegas' aren't romanticised 'loser' jangle from the bedroom of a semi-detached, this is raw anguish, the sound of souls being shreaded by the dismal reality of life on the streets of the East End of Glasgow. The album covers such topics as gang violence, disfunctional families and perhaps most of all the utter desperation of the poverty trap and the yearning for a better life.

If all this sounds a little dreary, like a Ken Loach film set to music, then it is most definitely not. Glasvegas takes you through the spectrum of human emotions and back again.

Heart breaking music if ever there was.

Tidal Wave Of Hype, 17 Nov 2008
Tidal wave of hype blah blah ******* blah.

Was the hype justified? Well that depends on what you mean by 'hype' - if a record company signs a new band they like, then they will always try to sell them - that's their job. In that respect hype is always justified.

Whether the band lives up to the hype is another matter. I was going to buy this on day of release but didn't - the hype was too far above the plimsol line.

So I waited a couple of months, still interested to hear it:

Thematically Glasvegas is a very heavy LP - it's got the kind of full-on unflinching 'rock and roll - deal with it' vibe that Unknown Pleasures had. This pretty much makes it the diameter opposite of bands like Coldplay, whose discontent seems to stem from paradise syndrome and misplaced earnestness.

Trackwise I'd have to say there's nothing here that is less than very good, with occasional bits of brilliance - my fave track being S.A.D. Light. A proper anthem for anyone who lives north of Kent.

Glasvegas were on a fine line with this LP - at times they get dangerously close to greeting sentimentality territory but somehow the deftness of the lyrics and the understated musicianship pull it back from the edge.

The problem with hype is that it doesn't convey the scope of a record. And the hype (true to form) doesn't really give an idea of how remarkable this release is. And it's not perfect, although if I ever heard a perfect record it would probably be by idiots and only merit one star.

MEGA!!!, 06 Nov 2008
the music, the lyrics, the guitars, the drums, the voice!! everything about this album is MEGA!! buy it!!!

If you like Pete Wylie you'll love this!, 16 Oct 2008
I caught "Daddy's Gone" on the radio back in August. I don't listen to Radio 1 any more but I was in a friend's car and this just stood head and shoulders above anything else was hearing on the station. I just had to have it.

Listening from the start I thought this was probably the perfect alnum. Unfortuantely a couple of tracks (Stabbed and Ice Cream Van)at the end of the album lost their way. However this couldn't be anything other than a 5 star review as the preceding tracks are just outstanding.

Having been a Pete Wylie/Wah fan for years I didn't expect anything to surpass his "wall of sound" on Story of the Blues. Sorry Pete this does it for me.

Please don't think I'm inferring that Glasvegas have copied the sound. They stand on their own.

Can I pre-order their second album now!!

Brave and Moving Debut, 15 Oct 2008
Like many I heard the plaintive Daddy's Gone last year and was moved by it's emotional punch and deft songwriting. Further investigations confirmed that Glasvegas have a number of exceptional songs which really move the listeners. Obvious references are the Jesus and Mary Chain and Phil Spector and they are mined for their full potential but this album is much braver than just Ronettes imitation for a number of reasons: 1. A number of the tracks feature long ambient sequences which build slowly and demand something of the listener before breaking out into the poppier side of the band - in fact the first couple of minutes of the album are an example! 2. James's decision to keep the raw Weejie brogue may have won him some fans in Scotland but could have lost some in other places - I think it's spot on and gives the work a more sincere feel. 3. Finally, the material is nothing less than challenging [Social Work, Depression, Casual Violence] but at the same time greatly uplifting. I'm told that they signed their current deal with the proviso that the second album would be a full-fledge Christmas album - what an album that is going to be! Phil Spector look out... All in all a powerful debut and well-worth buying - love, Neil

the edgier side of Travis, 30 Oct 2008
I have to admit Travis has never totally sold me. The music has been very easy-listening and not particularly exciting...sort of like Take That. I bought this cd because I dj and need to have the newest material by British contemporary artists. I popped it on in the car and was surprised to hear an edgier (though not together appealing) on the opening tracks. I persevered and continued to listen and about half-way through the cd I found some songs I really liked a lot. The acoustic based "Gotta Get Up" is very catchy and instantly singable...this is my favorite track. My other favorite "Friends" has more of that signature Travis sound but the lyrics are so lovely that it sucked me in.All in all it's a very listenable cd and worth your time.

Rather different from the last one, 08 Oct 2008
This album has been given 4 stars mainly because I do not find it as "instant" as their last album The Boy With No Name, which in my opinion is their best to date. This album starts with the oriental sounding guitars on Chinese Blues. The track J. Smith I find a little hard to get into at the moment, but I am sure will grow to like it in time. The album really starts to pick up with the very catchy Last Words, which is followed by the very melodic Quite Free. One of my favourite tracks is saved until the end with Before You Were Young, with that lovely piano thrown in for good measure. I would class this album alongside the grittyness of their debut Good Feeling and the darker sound of their 2003 album 12 memories. I suppose I am a bit biased as I saw them on their forest tour to promote the wonderful The Boy With No Name album in 2007. I am sure (as with 12 Memories) that this album is a grower which I will grow to love.

Wow!, 08 Oct 2008
Unexpected. It is brilliant. I checked out the reviews on Wikipedia and noticed the strong reviews. Quite Free, Song To Self, Chinese Blues, Before You Were Young are all in my top 10 Travis songs at least. And they sound amazing on the ears. But songs like Broken Mirror, Last Words, Friends are also really brilliant. The only let down is Get Up, and even that's ok. If you've ever liked Travis, i recommend this. It is definitely their best album since The Invisible Band. Just a shame to see it drop down the charts so quickly because this is the best album of the year. Bland? Dull? Boring? Not with this! The songs are up on Travis' MySpace so give it a listen. Great to have you back Travis.

Ode to F. Healy (and the other three), 07 Oct 2008
What a nice suprise this was, i didnt even know they were releasing a new album and then i saw it on the shelf and just bought it! a wonderful story, i know.. and a wonderful album aswell! no duds here, Chinese Blues is one heck of a song.. well theyre all very good, i think my favourite is Friends and im not sure why, anyway... buy the album, you wont regret it!

New sound, but suceeded with style!, 07 Oct 2008
For me this album has been longly awaited! The 3 singles (J. Smith, Something Anything, and Song to Self) set this album up to be amazing, and the lads from Travis have certainly not dissapointed!
They have changed their sound quite abit, introduced more instruments and digital backing , all bringing it together to have quite a rough, yet complex and mastered sound.
I strongly recommend this album as it is, in my opinion, one of the best albums this year!

Different to first album but brilliant, 24 Jul 2008
After reading some mediocre reviews of this album I was shocked when I finally heard it and it turned out that I really enjoyed listening to it. It's clearly a step away from the first album, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. This album has much more of blues, kind of Nashville Skyline-era Bob Dylan, feel to it, and I personally think that their vocals work much better together here, whereas the first album often felt like one or other of the vocal tracks had simply been 'tagged on'.

All of the tracks on this album seem to gel together very well, and although there aren't really any stand-out 'single' type tracks, I do not think that this is a bad thing at all.

It might take a few listens to really get into it, but this is well worth a few hours on a sunday afternoon. Don't expect it to be highly similar to the first album and you won't be disappointed.

Hail the King and Queen!!!!, 27 May 2008
I must say that I am very impressed by this album. I didn't appreciate the other album done by these 2 artists but this one hits the bullseye!! It has the same sort of atmosphere that is created with the Robert Plant duet album, but this cd creates much more of a relaxing atmosphere.
There isn't a weak track on this cd. Don't hesitate on buying it, even if the only reason why I bought it without even having heard a note is for the King- Mark Lanegan. As I do understand Isobel Campbell has written the majority of the material and Mark has given his final touches.
If you appreciate this album, I also suggest you buy The Gutter Twins- Saturnalia, anothe masterpiece. Take advantgae while these artists are in their highest creative veins!!! and you can say I know those guys and impress with musical culture.

Ballads of the broken seas was better, 19 May 2008
There isn't a bad song on this album ,but unfortunately there is only one really good song (Come on over). On this album I think Lanegan's vocals are more gravelly and campbell's are softer,so the contrast of vocals on this disc are stronger. On the whole this is a decent release but very downbeat and weaker than Ballads of the broken sea.

Ballad of the Broken Seas - the sequel, 19 May 2008
Basically a continuation of Ballad of the Broken Seas. If you were a fan of that album you'll like this, if you weren't then I doubt there's anything here to change your mind. My only complaint is that Isobel has such a beutiful voice it's a shame that there's not more of it on the album.

Ditch the lyrics, 14 May 2008
I agree with the previous 2 reviewers that the music is beautiful, the voices are a nice mix and the rhythmns and pace of the tunes are top quality. The real shame with this album is what appears to be the desire to make every line rhymne with the next irrespective of how weak the link to it may be. I've had to stop listening to it because it reminded me of small children's poetry.

Excellent album., 17 Nov 2008
The title of this album "Bagrock to the masses" is certiantly appropriate. The Red Hot Chilli Pipers have brought piping from a niche market out to a much wider audience.
Even those who aren't keen on pipe music will enjoy this album.

Bagpipes for the 21st Century !, 14 Dec 2007
An album that finally puts bagpipes on the map - and not just the Scottish map. This band has artfully crafted the bagpipes with incredibly powerful percussion sounds, pounding base guitar, haunting vocals and incredibly rhythmic keyboard backing. An unusual and instantly engaging compilation of traditional Scottish tunes mixed with more modern pop classics all given a distinctive Celtic twist. Never a fan of traditional pipe band music I have seen pipe music in a whole new light and can finally turn up the volume on this new and exciting evolution of an instrument that dates back at least 2,000 years. This album will rekindle everyones "Celtic heart" and leave you breathless as you get swept along on the sheer energy and enthusiasm of the music. Can't wait to see this band live!

Chilli pipers red hot in winter., 23 Nov 2007
If you are a piping or traditional music purist I can guarantee this album is NOT for you. If you have the Chilli's first album( I do!) then you are in for something completely different.
A rich mixture of rock classics as you have never heard them before and arrangements that really work. The recording itself is technically perfect with bigh deep basses and high pitches of the pipes. There is of course something for everyone and there is a wee extra track at the end, just what you need for a Hogmanay party. A couple of Scottish classics are also provided.
I admit this album may not be to everyone's taste but then you just can't please them all. How they will top this with their next album remains to be seen.
Have you oredered your copy??

Awesome!, 22 Nov 2007
Fantastic CD. Brings new life to the world of piping, innovative, uplifting and really enjoyable. Some excellent Rock classics and traditional sounds with a twist.

Bringing Tradition into the Now....with style., 21 Nov 2007
An exciting, innovative piece of work from a group of enthusiastic instrumentalists, bringing together the old and new from the worlds of scottish traditional and contempory folk and that of rock/power ballad.

Sure to bring bagpipes and scottish music in general into the forefront of the minds of the general public and keen music enthusiasts alike.

Top Class

dissapointing, 10 Sep 2008
Very ,very dissapointed with this CD, heard a bit on classic FM, rushed out to buy it, There have been 100s of albums with pipes and drums, and I though being The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards it would be superior. I regret having spent my money on this CD. look for budget CDs of pipe music, you will probably get the real thing, and much better.

great, 05 Jun 2008
i must admit i was nota bagpipe person, infact i hated them .i got my fiance this for his christmas and i love it, its relaxing and calming and very special to the both of us.

Refreshing, 31 May 2008
This CD is so refreshing, so relaxing, inspirational and a joy to listen to. This CD is one listen to as I move about the house or driving along in the car.

Bag Pipes like never before, 28 May 2008
I have purchased Bag pipe cd's before and they didnt quite set the mark. I saw this title advertised on the tv and thought wow that sounds really different to the ones i had heard before. so after a while i came to amazon and delved in and brought it i am truly amazed by the sheer beauty. The bag pipes are truly made by the backing band of trumpets and other brass. let your emotions run free and let the musin fill your heart with love peace and joy by buying this peice of musical art today.

disappointed, 19 Feb 2008
To me the smooth orchestration detracts from the sharp sound of the bagpipes. Perhaps it might grow on me if I can bear to listen to it a few more times but really I wish I'd gone for a purely bagpipe album in the first place. There is also some singing on the album which doesn't seem to fit in either. And never have I heard such a weird version of Pachelbel's Canon. It's a very strange mixture of sounds that's not to my personal taste, though others obviously like it as the album has sold so well. Oh, and the CD arrived from Amazon with a cracked case. I am very disappointed with the whole thing.

Another Solid Release, 27 Sep 2008
When Mogwai released 'Young Team' back in 1997, they were a breath of fresh air. They combined the rawness of Pavement circa 'Slanted & Enchanted' with the atmosphere so fondly remembered on Slint's milestone album 'Spiderland'.

11 years on from that landmark release and Mogwai have gone through many up's and downs. 'Come On Die Young' blew us all away with its blinding dynamics and sinister air, but conversley, 'Rock Action' left me with an empty feeling and made me wonder wheather this once great band had gone as far as it could. Since 'Rock Action', Mogwai have released a steady stream of good if not remarkable albums (although I beleive 'Happy Songs For Happy People' to be somewhat of a lost classic).

'The Hawk Is Howling' keeps this trend up, its neither Mogwai at its absoloute finest nor is it anything less than good. At times I feel they find some remnants of their original greatness, namely 'I Love You, I'm Going To Blow Up Your School's superb first 5 minutes of dark, brooding atmosphere, followed by the sort of explosive and breath-taking ending that you expect from that title. It really is a great moment, and sometimes I feel they are the only band around capable of such superb dynamics. 'Batcat' is another highlight, four and a half minutes of brutal noise, which will surely scare away any casual fans (if there is such a thing as a casual Mogwai fan!!!). The album as a whole resembles 'CODY', as we have an opening half dozen short (in Mogwai's case)songs, followed by a final four long, epic, blistering tracks that really finds the band in full stride and sounding the best they've sounded this century.

Mogwai's only problem for me is that they sound excatly as you would expect, which is both a curse and a blessing. Maybe the time is right for them to take a break and search for a new direction. However I will concede that it is wonderful to hear a band making music just for the love of it, and hearing 5 musicians just going into a studio and producing great music seems a rarity nowadays, so we should all applaud them for that.

On the point of the DVD. 'Adelia, I Want To Love' (fantastic title), is a short film by Vincent Moon. Now I may get shot for this, but I personally find Moon's films to be exceedingly pretentious which offer little in substance, and this one is no different. The video to 'Batcat' also features, which is rudimentery if not spectacular. I did quite enjoy the 'Batcat' animation though. So all-in-all another good Mogwai release.

As the sleeve of Drastic Fantastic, a shot of a wildly posing Kate Tunstall, suggests, the Scot never expected to find herself following up a multi-million selling debut. But her second official album, again produced by Steve Osborne, is an impressive piece of work, edgy enough to please those who delighted in her gleeful live shows yet suitably smooth for fans recruited via radio play. Unsurprisingly some of the songs on Drastic Fantastic is can be read as musings on fame, notably the catchy first single "Hold On" and the cleverly constructed Sixties-style pop of "Hopeless". Elsewhere "White Bird" is haunting and downbeat, while the propulsive "folk-punk" (her phrase) of "I Don't Want You Now" is apparently intended as a musical tribute to Tunstall's obvious precursor, the late Kirsty MacColl. The excellent `Saving My Face' welds a moody stadium rocker to a chord progression familiar from the chorus of Slade's timeless "Cum on Feel the Noize", a neat trick which pretty much encapsulates Tunstall's ability to combine the fragile and hearty in equal measures. By the time the understated, quietly epic "Beauty of Uncertainty" and the accordion-led "Paper Aeroplane", a quirky folk song not miles from her erstwhile comrades in Scotland's amorphous Fence Collective, bring proceedings to a close, the listener's relief is palpable. Making an intelligent, radio-friendly pop album with a real heart is difficult enough once, but managing the trick again proves her talent is genuine. --Steve Jelbert

At last a band with authenticity, 17 Nov 2008
In an entertainment business full of faked stance and faux emotion, all of a sudden something REAL has come along. Glasvegas are tough, rough around the edges but ultimately this is the genuinely most affecting releases not just in 2008 but for many years.

Let's be clear about this, 'Glasvegas' aren't romanticised 'loser' jangle from the bedroom of a semi-detached, this is raw anguish, the sound of souls being shreaded by the dismal reality of life on the streets of the East End of Glasgow. The album covers such topics as gang violence, disfunctional families and perhaps most of all the utter desperation of the poverty trap and the yearning for a better life.

If all this sounds a little dreary, like a Ken Loach film set to music, then it is most definitely not. Glasvegas takes you through the spectrum of human emotions and back again.

Heart breaking music if ever there was.

Tidal Wave Of Hype, 17 Nov 2008
Tidal wave of hype blah blah ******* blah.

Was the hype justified? Well that depends on what you mean by 'hype' - if a record company signs a new band they like, then they will always try to sell them - that's their job. In that respect hype is always justified.

Whether the band lives up to the hype is another matter. I was going to buy this on day of release but didn't - the hype was too far above the plimsol line.

So I waited a couple of months, still interested to hear it:

Thematically Glasvegas is a very heavy LP - it's got the kind of full-on unflinching 'rock and roll - deal with it' vibe that Unknown Pleasures had. This pretty much makes it the diameter opposite of bands like Coldplay, whose discontent seems to stem from paradise syndrome and misplaced earnestness.

Trackwise I'd have to say there's nothing here that is less than very good, with occasional bits of brilliance - my fave track being S.A.D. Light. A proper anthem for anyone who lives north of Kent.

Glasvegas were on a fine line with this LP - at times they get dangerously close to greeting sentimentality territory but somehow the deftness of the lyrics and the understated musicianship pull it back from the edge.

The problem with hype is that it doesn't convey the scope of a record. And the hype (true to form) doesn't really give an idea of how remarkable this release is. And it's not perfect, although if I ever heard a perfect record it would probably be by idiots and only merit one star.

MEGA!!!, 06 Nov 2008
the music, the lyrics, the guitars, the drums, the voice!! everything about this album is MEGA!! buy it!!!

If you like Pete Wylie you'll love this!, 16 Oct 2008
I caught "Daddy's Gone" on the radio back in August. I don't listen to Radio 1 any more but I was in a friend's car and this just stood head and shoulders above anything else was hearing on the station. I just had to have it.

Listening from the start I thought this was probably the perfect alnum. Unfortuantely a couple of tracks (Stabbed and Ice Cream Van)at the end of the album lost their way. However this couldn't be anything other than a 5 star review as the preceding tracks are just outstanding.

Having been a Pete Wylie/Wah fan for years I didn't expect anything to surpass his "wall of sound" on Story of the Blues. Sorry Pete this does it for me.

Please don't think I'm inferring that Glasvegas have copied the sound. They stand on their own.

Can I pre-order their second album now!!

Brave and Moving Debut, 15 Oct 2008
Like many I heard the plaintive Daddy's Gone last year and was moved by it's emotional punch and deft songwriting. Further investigations confirmed that Glasvegas have a number of exceptional songs which really move the listeners. Obvious references are the Jesus and Mary Chain and Phil Spector and they are mined for their full potential but this album is much braver than just Ronettes imitation for a number of reasons: 1. A number of the tracks feature long ambient sequences which build slowly and demand something of the listener before breaking out into the poppier side of the band - in fact the first couple of minutes of the album are an example! 2. James's decision to keep the raw Weejie brogue may have won him some fans in Scotland but could have lost some in other places - I think it's spot on and gives the work a more sincere feel. 3. Finally, the material is nothing less than challenging [Social Work, Depression, Casual Violence] but at the same time greatly uplifting. I'm told that they signed their current deal with the proviso that the second album would be a full-fledge Christmas album - what an album that is going to be! Phil Spector look out... All in all a powerful debut and well-worth buying - love, Neil

the edgier side of Travis, 30 Oct 2008
I have to admit Travis has never totally sold me. The music has been very easy-listening and not particularly exciting...sort of like Take That. I bought this cd because I dj and need to have the newest material by British contemporary artists. I popped it on in the car and was surprised to hear an edgier (though not together appealing) on the opening tracks. I persevered and continued to listen and about half-way through the cd I found some songs I really liked a lot. The acoustic based "Gotta Get Up" is very catchy and instantly singable...this is my favorite track. My other favorite "Friends" has more of that signature Travis sound but the lyrics are so lovely that it sucked me in.All in all it's a very listenable cd and worth your time.

Rather different from the last one, 08 Oct 2008
This album has been given 4 stars mainly because I do not find it as "instant" as their last album The Boy With No Name, which in my opinion is their best to date. This album starts with the oriental sounding guitars on Chinese Blues. The track J. Smith I find a little hard to get into at the moment, but I am sure will grow to like it in time. The album really starts to pick up with the very catchy Last Words, which is followed by the very melodic Quite Free. One of my favourite tracks is saved until the end with Before You Were Young, with that lovely piano thrown in for good measure. I would class this album alongside the grittyness of their debut Good Feeling and the darker sound of their 2003 album 12 memories. I suppose I am a bit biased as I saw them on their forest tour to promote the wonderful The Boy With No Name album in 2007. I am sure (as with 12 Memories) that this album is a grower which I will grow to love.

Wow!, 08 Oct 2008
Unexpected. It is brilliant. I checked out the reviews on Wikipedia and noticed the strong reviews. Quite Free, Song To Self, Chinese Blues, Before You Were Young are all in my top 10 Travis songs at least. And they sound amazing on the ears. But songs like Broken Mirror, Last Words, Friends are also really brilliant. The only let down is Get Up, and even that's ok. If you've ever liked Travis, i recommend this. It is definitely their best album since The Invisible Band. Just a shame to see it drop down the charts so quickly because this is the best album of the year. Bland? Dull? Boring? Not with this! The songs are up on Travis' MySpace so give it a listen. Great to have you back Travis.

Ode to F. Healy (and the other three), 07 Oct 2008
What a nice suprise this was, i didnt even know they were releasing a new album and then i saw it on the shelf and just bought it! a wonderful story, i know.. and a wonderful album aswell! no duds here, Chinese Blues is one heck of a song.. well theyre all very good, i think my favourite is Friends and im not sure why, anyway... buy the album, you wont regret it!

New sound, but suceeded with style!, 07 Oct 2008
For me this album has been longly awaited! The 3 singles (J. Smith, Something Anything, and Song to Self) set this album up to be amazing, and the lads from Travis have certainly not dissapointed!
They have changed their sound quite abit, introduced more instruments and digital backing , all bringing it together to have quite a rough, yet complex and mastered sound.
I strongly recommend this album as it is, in my opinion, one of the best albums this year!

Different to first album but brilliant, 24 Jul 2008
After reading some mediocre reviews of this album I was shocked when I finally heard it and it turned out that I really enjoyed listening to it. It's clearly a step away from the first album, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. This album has much more of blues, kind of Nashville Skyline-era Bob Dylan, feel to it, and I personally think that their vocals work much better together here, whereas the first album often felt like one or other of the vocal tracks had simply been 'tagged on'.

All of the tracks on this album seem to gel together very well, and although there aren't really any stand-out 'single' type tracks, I do not think that this is a bad thing at all.

It might take a few listens to really get into it, but this is well worth a few hours on a sunday afternoon. Don't expect it to be highly similar to the first album and you won't be disappointed.

Hail the King and Queen!!!!, 27 May 2008
I must say that I am very impressed by this album. I didn't appreciate the other album done by these 2 artists but this one hits the bullseye!! It has the same sort of atmosphere that is created with the Robert Plant duet album, but this cd creates much more of a relaxing atmosphere.
There isn't a weak track on this cd. Don't hesitate on buying it, even if the only reason why I bought it without even having heard a note is for the King- Mark Lanegan. As I do understand Isobel Campbell has written the majority of the material and Mark has given his final touches.
If you appreciate this album, I also suggest you buy The Gutter Twins- Saturnalia, anothe masterpiece. Take advantgae while these artists are in their highest creative veins!!! and you can say I know those guys and impress with musical culture.

Ballads of the broken seas was better, 19 May 2008
There isn't a bad song on this album ,but unfortunately there is only one really good song (Come on over). On this album I think Lanegan's vocals are more gravelly and campbell's are softer,so the contrast of vocals on this disc are stronger. On the whole this is a decent release but very downbeat and weaker than Ballads of the broken sea.

Ballad of the Broken Seas - the sequel, 19 May 2008
Basically a continuation of Ballad of the Broken Seas. If you were a fan of that album you'll like this, if you weren't then I doubt there's anything here to change your mind. My only complaint is that Isobel has such a beutiful voice it's a shame that there's not more of it on the album.

Ditch the lyrics, 14 May 2008
I agree with the previous 2 reviewers that the music is beautiful, the voices are a nice mix and the rhythmns and pace of the tunes are top quality. The real shame with this album is what appears to be the desire to make every line rhymne with the next irrespective of how weak the link to it may be. I've had to stop listening to it because it reminded me of small children's poetry.

Excellent album., 17 Nov 2008
The title of this album "Bagrock to the masses" is certiantly appropriate. The Red Hot Chilli Pipers have brought piping from a niche market out to a much wider audience.
Even those who aren't keen on pipe music will enjoy this album.

Bagpipes for the 21st Century !, 14 Dec 2007
An album that finally puts bagpipes on the map - and not just the Scottish map. This band has artfully crafted the bagpipes with incredibly powerful percussion sounds, pounding base guitar, haunting vocals and incredibly rhythmic keyboard backing. An unusual and instantly engaging compilation of traditional Scottish tunes mixed with more modern pop classics all given a distinctive Celtic twist. Never a fan of traditional pipe band music I have seen pipe music in a whole new light and can finally turn up the volume on this new and exciting evolution of an instrument that dates back at least 2,000 years. This album will rekindle everyones "Celtic heart" and leave you breathless as you get swept along on the sheer energy and enthusiasm of the music. Can't wait to see this band live!

Chilli pipers red hot in winter., 23 Nov 2007
If you are a piping or traditional music purist I can guarantee this album is NOT for you. If you have the Chilli's first album( I do!) then you are in for something completely different.
A rich mixture of rock classics as you have never heard them before and arrangements that really work. The recording itself is technically perfect with bigh deep basses and high pitches of the pipes. There is of course something for everyone and there is a wee extra track at the end, just what you need for a Hogmanay party. A couple of Scottish classics are also provided.
I admit this album may not be to everyone's taste but then you just can't please them all. How they will top this with their next album remains to be seen.
Have you oredered your copy??

Awesome!, 22 Nov 2007
Fantastic CD. Brings new life to the world of piping, innovative, uplifting and really enjoyable. Some excellent Rock classics and traditional sounds with a twist.

Bringing Tradition into