Reviewed by David Cranson I've labelled this blues, but really "country/folk/blues" is more accurate. These are the first two solo albums released by Bryn way back 30 years ago (in the case of 'Let The Days.'). It is an amalgam of styles and is quoted by someone as being "laidback and unassuming." I quite agree. The first album is more laid back than the second, but both bring a feeling of someone who loves what he does and feels very comfortable doing it. Influences come thick and fast, with almost every track showing some nod to his peers of the time - and later. I can hear Jethro Tull, Faces/Rod Stewart, Stealers Wheel, Gerry Rafferty. On the second album, there are strong hints of 'Saved!' era Dylan and - wait for it - Whitesnake! Honestly. They used to do one boogie track (not necessarily heavy) on every album, strong backbeat and bass line with piano to the fore with a great (slide) guitar break. "Sunny Side Of The Street" is that track. Of course Ry Cooder is painted all over the albums, and along with the others - who although they don't appear in person, do so in spirit - help Bryn and the band - and what a band! - play some fine music with thought provoking lyrics. Various subjects are covered with the odd nod here and there to more spiritual matters. Favourites - for me anyway - would include "Ee, I Love You Lass", "Miss Swiss", "Time Has Come" (which has a Doors piano solo on the fade out similar in style to "Riders On The Storm"), "Good Job", the aforementioned "Sunny Side . . ." and the last track "Thank The Lord" which is a gentle way to finish off things. Overall, not at all what I was expecting. In a couple of places it dips or drags, but not for too long. The second album is more mature in sound than the first, but overall whilst showing their ages to an extent, two timeless albums on one CD to add to your collection.
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