STYLE: Roots/Acoustic RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 45259-13866 LABEL: Independent FORMAT: CD Album ITEMS: 1
Reviewed by Tom Lennie
Chris is a 30-something believer who attends a church in Crewe. This collection of a dozen self-penned songs was recorded (in collaboration with some friends?) in Shackelton's home (the album's title, apparently, derives its name from Chris being recently made redundant, giving him the time to work on this project). It's a guitar-based effort, and there's a fair diversity of sounds. "No Good For Me To Be Alone" is a moody number with appealing rhythm. Indeed there's a catchy element to a number of tracks. Several tunes, notably "Uncreated One" and the harmonica-infused closing track, have a distinct folk blues feel. Shackelton's writing is certainly original; among song titles are "Daffodil Bill", "Come And Fill My Universe" and "1x1". Unfortunately the disc suffers from the expected deficiencies of low-budget recording and some songs sound like they need a bit of a '"lift" to stop them from dragging. But, equally clearly, there's bags of talent and potential underlying this offering.
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Chris's music is a must hear. It's easy listening and full of soul.