Matador レコード& CD

Review: You'll probably struggle to find an album that opens with two more contrasting tracks than the fifth long form effort from Mike Hadreas. Re-teaming with GRAMMY-nominated production talent Blake Mills, with the pair inviting a host of guest collaborators to help on this record (Jim Keltner, Pino Palladino to name but two), the record begins with the peaceful, reflective and hymn-like 'Whole Life', a classic slice of rock croonerdom, before the scuzzy guitars of 'Describe' drop in like juggernauts. Elsewhere, you have the proto-pop of 'On The Floor', a track heyday Cyndi Lauper would have been happy to call her own, and the haunting slow dance of 'One More Try', offering yet more shades of grey which, combined, create a complete picture of a man, or indeed men, in the 21st Century. Rebellious, tender, caring, carefree and deeply complex. Definitely one that will keep you exploring long after first pressing play.