Andy Mayo - Dreams Of A Homecoming

Thursday 1st May 2003
Andy Mayo - Dreams Of A Homecoming
Andy Mayo - Dreams Of A Homecoming

STYLE: Jazz
RATING 7 7 7 7 7 7 7
OUR PRODUCT CODE: 7091-6870
LABEL: Independent
FORMAT: CD Album
RRP: £10.99

Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Top quality sleeve design (from Andy himself) indicates that this is no low budget demo from a singer/songwriter with more hope than wisdom. Musically, too, this is a long way from the introspective musings or stylised praise and worship of many independent releases. In fact, with contributions from jazz saxman Nick Beston (Take 5 and NBQ) and Stan Mayersky’s winning ways on Hammond and grand it’s jazz which colours many of the tracks here, though Andy wouldn’t claim to be an out-and-out jazzo. What he is is a thoughtful observer of the carnival of life and whether he’s penning his observations of a shivering child in Belgrade (“Princess In The Park”), the quiet still voice of God (“Today”) or a hint of glory to come (“Dreams of A Homecoming”). Andy’s lyrics are decidedly poetic. At times they appear a bit too wordy and seldom rhyme (or indeed scan too well). But usually it works and his dry, world-weary voice suits the laid back mood of haunting poignancy perfectly. These songs were written in the shelled remains of the former Yugoslav Republics where London-born Andy made his home for seven years. Yet despite the occasional bleak image his message is continually suffused with transcendent hope.

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Sample Track Listing:
1. Whining Of The Brakes [Listen]
2. Arms Held Open [Listen]
3. Princess In The Park [Listen]
4. Train [Listen]
5. Eternity [Listen]
6. Pink House Peace [Listen]
7. The Reason [Listen]
8. Dreams Of A Homecoming [Listen]
9. Salvation Day [Listen]
10. Today [Listen]
11. Coming Home [Listen]
12. May The Lord Answer You [Listen]
13. Find Rest [Listen]

This track data is supplied by the Cross Rhythms CD/DVD review library. Please note that CD tracks may vary according to release region or product version.

Reader Comments

Posted by angel - anna in stowmarket suffolk @ 13:27 on Oct 31 2005

I heard this cd by ex prisoner who gave himself to the Lord whilst inside prison this year. (He heard Andy whilst in prison.) I am member of CMA (Christian Motorbikes..) this is how I met with this ex prisoner who is as a bro.
I haven't been able to stop playin this cd..truly gifted musician and writer..
unique style - am sharing it with sons and christians and MORE importantly non- christians as its just so REAL - mellow and great dance beat (have to get up an dance on those ones).
When's your next album out Andy fella? Such encouragement..God Bless you.
angel x



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