Paul Bell - Name In Lights: Live In Sheffield

Published Friday 31st July 2009
Paul Bell - Name In Lights: Live In Sheffield
Paul Bell - Name In Lights: Live In Sheffield

STYLE: Pop
RATING 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
OUR PRODUCT CODE: 81447-15563
LABEL: Independent
FORMAT: CD Album
ITEMS: 1

Reviewed by Alastair McCollum

Warm, gentle, thoughtful acoustic songs are the trademark of Paul Bell, a Nottingham-based musician and long term Godfrey Birthill collaborator. His first solo album 'Human Conditions' offered a depth of thought and strength of musicianship that hinted at greater efforts to come, and this second collection of new songs, recorded live in The Spires in Sheffield, continues to showcase Bell's exquisite lyricism and compelling guitar-based style. 'Name In Lights' offers intelligent and often moving songs, including the outstanding "Tuvalu", "Unnoticed" and "Day Like This" alongside the enjoyably light hearted "Should Have Learned" and "The Need For Biscuits". Bell's voice is light and clear and has a quiet passion throughout and the only criticism of this disc is that the humorous songs - which have some very clever lines - are sung in the same style as the meaningful and moving songs, somehow taking away from the overall power of the presentation. Having said that, this is an outstanding album, good for mellow moments; whether late nights or lazy summer days.

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Reader Comments

Posted by Graeme Clark in Lincoln @ 10:24 on Aug 24 2009

Absolutely love this album - great for long car journeys!! Paul is a very talented songwriter, guitarist and live performer. My only comment about the review is: I'm not too sure how Paul could have sung the humorous songs differently. It's the lyrics that provide the comedy - surely a comedy voice isn't needed to be able to appreciate that!!
Anyone who has had the privilege of seeing Paul live will know how good and funny a concert of his is. Amazing album Paul - well done!



Posted by Hannah Holland in Lincoln @ 14:24 on Jul 31 2009

Completely agree with the article. It is outstanding the only thing i don't agree with is the fact it was given 8 out of 10. If something is outstanding, which this is, I would argue that a 9 or 10 would be more fitting. Well done Paul!



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