A guy who supports Take That in concert automatically raises doubts in my mind about whether I should even listen to this album. I’m glad I did (as I always do…).

Make no mistake this is a ‘pop’ album but it’s no ordinary one. First there’s the quite rocky band behind that pleasant, expressive and easy-sounding voice. Then there’s the intelligent, simple and direct lyrics that don’t usually come with your ‘radio-friendly’ mass-market trash. Then, there’s the superb production that separates vocals and instrumentals so bloody well. Finally there’s the absolute authority and passion from a ‘new’ writer and performer. It’s a heady mix and a very good album.

I smell ‘I spent time in the USA’ with the album at a critical stage in Gary Go’s musical career. That’s a good thing. First track ‘Open Arms’ pretty well sums up all the above: a nice opening sonic touch, lyrics like “Whatever happened to this city, it’s not like it used to be. Whatever happened to living without fear…”, monster melody, a rocky backdrop, an epic vibe and a pleasant, sincere voice. A great start. ‘So So’ is next and takes an altogether softer sonic route in delivering another succint message. The rockiness is muted but it’s there in the background surfacing briefly for the immaculate choruses along with beautifully judged orchestral strings. It’s another cracker. ‘Engines’ is next and really does remind me of Coldplay’s Chris Martin. There’s piano, another set of good lyrics (”I don’t know why we’re fighting, we’re on the same side…”) and a sense that Go is delivering a message that he really does believe in. ‘Wonderful’ is the first single and while not the strongest song here is pleasant enough. ‘Life Gets In The Way’ is a sadder, wistful song with a powerful chorus when Go’s voice soares - it’s all so right! This should have been the first single… ‘Brooklyn’ ends the first section (called ‘Of Youth’) with solid piano notes eventually joined by orchestral strings as Go is in contemplative conversation with his audience. It’s a more ‘adult’ ballad that’s beautifully crafted and delivered.

The second section of the album is called ‘Of Beauty’ and opens with ‘Refuse To Lose’ with vibrant guitar notes introducing Go’s vocal. The pace is glacial but quickens fractionally as the band arrives to boost the chorus in distinctive style. ‘Honest’ is another simple but excellent ballad that exhibits Go’s sincere heart-on-sleeve tendency. ‘Hearty And Soul’ is my pick of the second section with it’s slightly darker vibe, piano backdrop and Go’s expressive voice. The song picks up pace in the closing moments with strings returning to create an epic final passage. The thoughtful ‘Speak’ and ‘Black And White Days’complete an accomplished and highly polished debut album.

4/5