Glyn Bailey - Songs From The Old Illawalla (GLYNB Music) 02/04/2007

Lancashire lad and former bed salesman Glyn Bailey, swaps soft furnishings for his passion with music, bringing together influences as diverse as Nick Cave, David Bowie, Jacques Brel, Divine Comedy, Ian McNabb and Lou Reed.

T: The Bowie influence is at the fore front of Bailey's music and this could easily be the 'Thin White Duke' at the top of his game.

N: As you said after only a short while of hearing this artist's album; "it's surprisingly good..." and I defy anyone think differently. As albums go the professionalism here rings loud, but to pigeon hole this artist it might be fit to say that he certainly fits into music that might be considered slightly quirky, but wholly saleable and it is therefore fitting that he has already had interest shown from "...underground media" for earlier releases.

This 13 track outing comprises compositions that are wholly believable and would sit comfortably beside releases from more well trodden artists. The fact that Glyn mixes rhythms, textures and fine story telling is outstanding, his only downfall here might be that it appears more 'karaoke' than 'homage'. Another consideration might be that of the artwork lent for the album and might do well to be high on the list of considerations. This is available from CD Baby and is certainly worth checking out, but how well this translates onto the live stage is unclear, although for the market Glyn is aiming at, this might be worthwhile.

One of the most engaging 'unsigned releases' I've heard of late, although as the wider market goes, perhaps a case of 'right place, wrong time'. 9/10

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