UK RELEASE DATE 5th NOVEMBER 2007

“THE CAKE SALE is not just the best ‘charity’ record we’ve heard in years, it’s one of the best records of the year.” The Irish Times

“…this is the album other charity records aspire to be.” Hot Press

High praise indeed from two highly reputable Irish publications for a charity album which was released in Ireland late last year and achieved double platinum sales. THE CAKE SALE is a concept album instigated by Brian Crosby of Irish band Bell X1, and brings together the exceptional writing and performing talent of artists including: Glen Hansard (Frames, ONCE movie), Lisa Hannigan (former Damien Rice collaborator), Gemma Hayes, Paul Noonan (Bell X1), Damien Rice, Gary Lightbody (Snow Patrol), Conor Deasy (The Thrills), Nina Persson (Cardigan), Josh Ritter, Neil Hannon (The Divine Comedy), Ollie Cole (Turn) plus band members from Crowded House, Frames, and some of the bands already mentioned.

I am especially interested in the album since we at Shakenstir were the first to write about most of the artists here (after visiting Ireland on several occasions to cover music festivals), and before several became well known here in the UK. And with such distinctive talent available to the album makers it’s no surprise that all the songs were previously unreleased and recorded specifically for THE CAKE SALE. That said the album is consistent in its contemplative and understated style. The opening, soulful, jazzy ‘Last Leaf’ is written by Dave Geraghty (Bell X1) and beautifully sung by Lisa Hannigan. Paul Noonan (Bell X1) wrote the next song, ‘Vapour Trail’, which has a light country flavour as interpreted by USA singer/songwriter (and regular Ireland visitor) Josh Ritter (whose new album has met with universal acclaim in the UK). Next up is a gentle, melodic ballad, ‘Black Winged Bird’, sung with great sensitivity by Nina Persson whose voice soars in the memorable chorus lines. At the halfway point Gary Lightbody and Lisa Hannigan join vocal forces to perform Paul Noonan’s haunting folksy ode ‘Some Surprise.’ ‘All The Way Down’ is written by Glen Hansard and subsequently appeared in his hit music movie ONCE. Here Gemma Hayes provides a very different and moving interpretation of the song and I’m struggling to decide which version I prefer. This version has delicate piano moments and the most calm, understated vocal that combine to create the most beautiful sound. Then it’s Hansard’s turn to perform, and he sounds very different singing this gently meandering tune (‘Too Many People’) written by Ollie Cole from Irish band Turn. ‘Good Intentions Rust’ is the rockiest song here and is both written and sung by Conor Deasy of The Thrills, and it’s one of my favourites. Damien Rice was never going to be too far away from this collection, and sure enough he pops up as writer of the next song ‘Needles’ which, inevitably, is performed (almost in a whisper) by his former collaborator Lisa Hannigan. It’s glacially paced with the most fragile backing vocals, and is another of my album favourites. The final song is sung by Neil Hannon and written by Matt Lunson. ‘Aliens’ is my pick of the album with Hannon also sounding very different and quite magnificent in a song that ebbs and flows like the tide, before finally crashing down in a crescendo of instrumental sounds (with Frames fiddler Colm Mac Ion Iomaire at the heart of the final action). It’s a stunner!

It amazes me how such a disparate collection of artists can come together to create an album that sounds so cohesive; like a jigsaw where the pieces fit together easily and perfectly. It is not an album that instantly gratifies, but after a couple of listens I’m convinced that it’s one of the best albums released in 2007, and worthy of your serious consideration. Strongly recommended.

Publishing royalties are being donated to OXFAM by the song writers in support of OXFAM’S MAKE FAIR TRADE CAMPAIGN and its overseas programme work.

4/5