Reviewed by Adrian Cherrill

'Acoustic' is the new three-song CD from a Midlands based outfit, fronted by Mark Winters and preceding the next full CD. Despite the title, though, all the songs feature a full band just with acoustic guitars and violin replacing the electric instruments for that "acoustic" feel. The production is commendably clear, the playing suitably competent and the songs are all ok (but nothing spectacular). But instead of stripping the songs back all three sometimes come across as a bit cluttered with, at times, just too much embellishment. The other problem is Winter's vocals, which just don't suit this style of music at all. Whilst never really off key, he seems to need to shout to stay in tune, although when he finally attempts to sing more quietly on the final track "Beautiful", the results are far better. It's ok, but they would be much better off sticking to the electric sound.

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