David's second and fourth studio albums
02/29/2004
(4 out of 5 stars)
"David Essex's second and fourth studio albums are reissued by Demon in this handsome two-disc set. The set comes with a 12-page booklet that reproduces the original artwork from both albums, including the extensive illustrations that accompanied "Out on the Street," which was originally issued in a gatefold sleeve. The company also deserves a hand for the oustanding sound quality. Musically, the two discs offer quite a contrast in styles. "David Essex" (1974) is a solid, smart collection of pop/rock, showcasing Essex's versatility. The British No. 1 "Gonna Make You a Star" is a delightful spoof on Essex's fame; it's a puzzle why the song never caught on in the states, with its hummable chorus and neat synthesizer riff. Other high spots include "Stardust," the glammy theme to Essex's film of the same name; the spooky "Window;" and the ragtime feel of "Miss Sweetness." The only song that captures the "Rock On" feel is "America," but it's one of the lesser tunes on an otherwise outstanding disc. "Out on the Street" followed two years later and found Essex struggling to shed his teen idol image and be taken seriously as a rocker. That could by why some of the disc seems overwrought and sounds like he is trying too hard, especially with four tracks clocking in at over five minutes long. The title tune goes on, in fact, for a very long 10 minutes. Still, there are some gems here, including the very pretty R&B ballad "Thank You Very Much" and the carefree "Just Wanna Dance." It's an uneven album, but still an interesting one in Essex's career. Either disc would have made more sense packaged with "All the Fun of the Fair," Essex's 1975 album that saw his sound begin to transition to harder-edged fare. Still, this is a great release."
Good looking and great music
I. Carew | Haverhill, MA United States | 06/21/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I own the vinyl copy of Gonna Make you a star but this was the first time I had heard Out On The Street.
David Essex has been a Pop favorite of mine since the mid 70's and I still follow his career today.
His talent is underrated here in America, but in Europe he is a star.
In my opinion, David Essex rocks! I recommend All the fun of the fair.
Check out his latest works at [...]. Forever and Sunset are sold exclusively through his website and are well worth a listen."
Track Listings (18) - Disc #1