Back catalogue: Rock (All)

Review: In Blue, the celebrated album by The Corrs, finds the Irish siblings navigating the fine line between their Celtic roots and mainstream pop sensibilities. Initially striking a balance with their 1995 debut, Forgiven, Not Forgotten, the group has evolved, embracing a polished sound that resonates widely, particularly in the U.S. Their collaboration with renowned producer Robert John Lange infuses the album with radio-friendly appeal, evident in standout tracks like 'Breathless' and 'Irresistible'. While some fans may lament the departure from traditional instruments, the album showcases The Corrs' melodic strength and lyrical warmth, proving accessible to a broad audience. Songs like 'One Night' and 'No More Cry' inject moments of freshness amidst the pop sheen, highlighting the band's ability to craft catchy, memorable tunes. In Blue remains enjoyable, celebrating The Corrs' musical journey while introducing their sound to new listeners. Now available on limited edition blue vinyl, this collection captures the essence of their infectious charm and artistic evolution.

Review: The Corrs return to their Celtic roots with their seventh studio album, blending familiar folk elements with their signature soft rock sound. Opening with 'Son of Solomon', the album features the tin whistle and violin that defined their early hits, with Andrea's emotive voice taking center stage. The album shines when the three sisters harmonise, evoking the charm of their early classics like 'Runaway'. Now pressed on red vinyl, tracks like 'SOS', addressing the Syrian refugee crisis, showcase the band's growing social awareness. 'Dear Life' cleverly blends lyrical wit with traditional instrumentation, while 'No Go Baby' offers a heartfelt, minimalist reflection on loss. The album closes with the melancholic, nearly eight-minute 'The Sun and the Moon', highlighting Andrea's vocal artistry. The band's harmonious rapport and Andrea's captivating vocals keep their sound fresh, is a nostalgic yet satisfying experience for longtime fans.

Review: As The Corrs gear up for their 2024 Talk On Corners tour across the UK and Ireland, they're marking the occasion with a special reissue of six classic studio albums on limited edition colour vinyl. This is the first-ever colour vinyl release for these albumsiaside from Forgiven Not Forgotten (2023) and Jupiter Calling's black vinyl in 2017imaking this a collector's dream. Each album arrives in three batches timed with the tour, offering fans a rare chance to own these beloved records on vibrant vinyl, just in time to celebrate the band's return to the stage.

Review: Reissued on yellow vinyl, Home by The Corrs marks a fitting tribute to their Irish heritage and late mother, capturing their classic blend of Celtic roots with polished pop sensibility. Originally released in 2006, this album reflects the band's true embrace of traditional Irish music, produced by Mitchell Froom and backed by the BBC Radio 2 Orchestra. The album elegantly balances traditional favoruites, like the haunting 'Black is the Color' and nostalgic 'Spancill Hill', with lively jigs such as 'Old Hag' and 'Haste to the Wedding'. Andrea Corr's angelic vocals shine, especially in Gaelic tracks 'Buachaill on Eirne' and 'Brid og Ni Mhaille', infusing the album with authenticity. Songs like Richard Thompson's 'Dimming of the Day' and Anna McGarrigle's 'Heart Like A Wheel' are soulful additions, while 'Old Town' feels slightly at odds with the folk theme. Avoiding overt sentimentality, Home stands as a lovingly crafted and intelligent collection of Celtic-inspired pop that fans and newcomers alike will find captivating.

Review: The reissue of Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie gives a new audience the opportunity to discover Alanis Morissette's intriguing and often overlooked follow-up to Jagged Little Pill. Released during a turbulent time in the music industry, this album was initially overshadowed by the towering success of its predecessor. However, with its diverse soundscapes and deeply personal lyrics, the record has aged into something truly unique. Morissette's voice is richer and more mature here, moving beyond the iconic style she established in her earlier work. Tracks like 'Baba' and 'Thank U' show her knack for blending introspection with biting commentary, while songs like 'That I Would Be Good' and 'Unsent' reveal her reflective side and a deeper look into her search for self-understanding amid fame's pressures. The album's eclectic mix of stylesifrom the trip-hop influence on 'Would Not Come' to the electro-tinged 'So Pure'ihighlights Morissette's willingness to experiment. Though the record's length and occasional indulgence may have put off some listeners initially, it now stands as a bold exploration of identity and artistry. This reissue is a perfect chance to appreciate the album's complexity and rediscover its hidden gems.

Review: Simply Red's Love & The Russian Winter is one of many great modern soul albums from the flame-haired Mancunian and one that really captures his band's signature blend of soul, pop and jazz styles. Released originally back in 1999, the album is now a full quarter of a century old and features smooth melodies and rich instrumentation with Mick Hucknall's emotive vocals shining throughout. Tracks like 'The World and You Tonight' and 'Love Is a Long Road' highlight the group's ability to weave heartfelt lyrics with infectious grooves while the lush arrangements and sophisticated production create a warm atmosphere which makes it perfect for both relaxed listening and intimate gatherings. Overall, this one still sounds great and is a great testament to Simply Red's enduring appeal.

Review: It's almost Christmas time which of course means we get inundated with plenty of brilliantly seasonal albums to add a touch of sonic warmth and festivities to your parties. This one is a mix of more modern-leaning collections of Christmas sounds from favourites like Ed Sheehan and Kelly Clarkson next to more traditional names like Michael Buble, Otis Redding, Donny Hathaway and The Pogues. It does on four sides of vinyl and really will do the trick to get you in the mood while you over eat and drink too much for a good few weeks this December.