Great debut album for Lee Ryan
Rosie G | Hampshire,UK | 10/23/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Long awaited solo album does not disappoint. This album covers most genres of music from the catchy first track "Army of Lovers" through to the poignant self penned "In the Morning". Soul lovers are catered to with "Real Love" whilst jazz aficionados should enjoy "Miss My Everything".
Favourite track is the hauntingly beautiful "How do I?", yet another song written by Lee. The remaining tracks are excellent especially the country style "Turn your car around".
One of the most talented singer/songwriters to come out of England for the longest time. A voice of an Angel.
An album to listen to at any time and place."
Not bad, some brilliant tracks
Weather Warden | Auckland, NZ | 01/29/2006
(3 out of 5 stars)
"Lee achieved something great - he was the first member of Blue to release an entire solo album. Not the first to release a single, Duncan did this in 2004, but Lee was the first to have an entire album out.
And it's a solid effort. For the most part, the album is good, but there are times where all the songs sound the same and it all seems to blend together. But there are other moments where amazingly strong songs just stand out and yell for attention. You alternate between these moments throughout the album.
Lee's solo material is a lot different to his time in Blue, the music is a lot more guitar influenced and there's a few more ballads then Blue did, but sometimes this isn't a bad thing. This is shown in the album's outstanding track "How Do I." This song is utterly beautiful. Everything about it takes my breath away - the music, the lyrics and Lee's vocals. I always thought he was a bit of screamer in Blue, but on this song it works. This is a gorgeous track and the album's best track. Other amazing tracks include "Parking" (another gorgeous ballad with amazing lyrics), "Army Of Lovers" (Lee's debut single, a short and sweet midtempo track), "Turn Your Car Around" (the second single, a upbeat guitar track with brilliant vocals) and "Daydreamer" (a midtempo track with fantastic music at the beginning).
Overall, not a bad effort from Mr Ryan, who was certainly brave being the first Blue member to branch out into a solo album. I will continue to support him, as I will do with all the solo Blue members. Release the tracks I listed above Lee and you will do well!"
Worth Purchasing
Susanna | New Zealand | 08/08/2006
(4 out of 5 stars)
"I'm a Blue fan from way back, but objectively, I have to say Lee Ryan's album is well worth the money.
My decision to buy this album began as Blue fan obligation, but when I heard the singles, I could not click order soon enough. The track 'Turn Your Car Around' had me hooked, while 'Army of Lovers' was nice, it wasn't stand out. That's where 'Turn Your Car Around' blows you away. There's no denying Ryan has the vocals to pull off some beautiful ballads, the only reason this review was dragged to a 4* is some songs on the album feel like they just don't need to be there. It left me wishing one or two had been replaced.
Out of the 12 songs, my picks would include:
1. Parking. Definately for me the best song, it's beautiful both in lyrics and in vocals.
2. Turn Your Car Around. As I've said before this song pulls you into the album.
3. Daydreamer. Again a beautiful song which showcases Lee's amazing voice.
Lee Ryan has an incredible voice. I look forward to more albums showcasing his talent."
Track Listings (12) - Disc #1