Continuing my write-ups on the Chris Rea reissues..... The Rea-issues #2 – Shamrock Diaries (1985) The first one proved quite popular, so I thought I'd post this one too! EG.
Thanks,Eric, this review is informative and interesting. I shared similar emotions about the album when it came out. Part of it was, indeed, the identity of the artist in the public eye. He is a musician and f many sides, but record company pressure was influencing the coherence of what he put out then. Your insights are excellent and you do write with some level of knowledge and even respect for your subject material. Anyone interested in some fine music writing should check out Eric's blog - it's an enticing read and I am finding it engaging.
Thanks George, really appreciate the kind words I'm glad the reviews come across in that way! I'll have to decide which of the three remaining albums I tackle next.... EG.
I second this. It’s a pity EG couldn’t have been employed at Smash Hits or Record Mirror in the 80s. They could have used him.
Seconded ( or thirded!). I really enjoy your blog EG. I bought the "One Fine Day" vinyl and I think it's actually quite good. I didn't have high hopes for it, but it's great to hear 'new' music with Chris' young voice. I'd like to hear your thoughts on it at some stage. As for the 5 reissues, I was going to pass on these as I have most of the originals. But after reading your reviews I think I'll treat myself. You're enthusiasm is infectious. ( and anyone who has a passion for FGTH is okay by me ) Thank you Bryan
Cheers Bryan! I'm still undecided what to do about One Fine Day; whether to get the LP/CD bundle (even though I have little use for vinyl) or buy the CD-quality download from QoBuz and make my own art. Decisions, decisions.... EG.
I'm really looking forward to listening to the LP One Fine Day, bought it on release day but have kept it as a 50th birthday present to myself, so on Thursday I'll get to hear it ! I'm looking forward to hearing the early versions of the released songs & of course some " new" tracks. Anyone else got it & what are your thoughts, of the comments i have heard they mostly seem to agree that it was the right decision to abandon this LP & start again with Jon Kelly which resulted in the self titled LP, which I really like.
It might sound a bit trivial, but I reckon 'One Fine Day' on vinyl is worth the money for the sleeve art alone. It's a beautiful thing.
Argh, yes I have just read that. There are copies floating around on eBay where the seller's split the vinyl and CD to sell separately. We'll see! EG.
I do spend quite a bit of time on the artwork side of things. Restoring some shabby record sleeves and looking for as many variations as I can. There's also a Yugoslavian 1985 LP which uses the shot of Chris on the stool! EG.
Thanks for sharing your review of Road to Hell, Erispite c. Despite enjoying the album myself, perhaps for similar underlying reasons as you summarise, I do not play it that often perfering other Rea albums instead. However, it is a beast of an album that brought Rea into many record collections. An art rock album cover and a monster single with a complete album version over the chart single edit. As you point out, Auberge was a fallback and backup just in case and I can see that. I prefer it to its predecessor. Thanks again for the reviews which I am finding educational as well as critically apprecitive of the music.
