Independents Day

There there my dear…it’s been a mixed up muddled up shook up weekend on the reviews front. Part of me wants to ignore them but of course that’s never possible and they are, after all, for better or worse, some kind of barometer. On Saturday the Independent loved the new album, four stars and some decent name dropping comparisons [Luke Haines and Stephen Merrit are two of my very favourite artists]. The very next day in the Independent on Sunday review is much the polar opposite. I suppose its only peoples opinions…and whilst I might bemoan the cheap jibes, allusions to Morrisseys failing associates and the grim finale at least these both reviews have engendered some kind of reaction. And I’d rather have that than bland indifference any day. Here they are.
Saturday 5th Jan 08 – The Independent


Sunday 6th Jan 08

The Independent on Sunday

Reviewed by Simmy Richman
If Morrissey hates it when friends become successful, might we assume that he rather enjoys it when known associates don't? Two years away from the high point that was 'The Rise and Fall of Vinny Peculiar' (which featured two ex-members of the Smiths), any kind of breakthrough is looking less likely for this psychiatric nurse turned "song-writing maverick". 'Goodbye My Angry Friend' kicks off with a track entitled "Vinny Peculiar Is Dead" and gets steadily less charming from there. Song titles such as"Kiss Me (I'm a Social Worker)" and "Song for the Dead" probably tell you everything you need to know. Grim.

Should you wish to make your mind up you can buy a copy of the new album via this site [for just £7.00 including postage], via download at several sites including iTunes and in shops from 4.2.08 [the release date put back a few weeks for reasons best known to the nice Pronoia people].