Album Review

Dan Black – Symphonies

• 22nd Jun 2009

Fuzzy, slight soul with a psychedelic twist on pop bears out the tormenting nature of human feelings and the temptation to give into them.

This makes for ‘Symphonies’, the Paris based Ban Black’s choice of snippet to tempt those who have fallen for the stammering vocal pushed, heart-on-sleeve approach.

The pace is a little disappointing, as the percussion barely retains a steady pulse throughout and, as you sense the intensity of the lyrics pick up, the vocal tone and speed of delivery does not seem to match it.

That said, there is enough variety scattered around, like the bracing The Polyphonic Spree spirited choral beginning and a smooth, but mystified backing touch that underlines Black’s delving approach.

It gives him some appeal and makes you want to keep him on your radar, as he may be capable of something mesmerising.

www.danblacksound.com