If you're a fan of British rock you'll instantly recognize the voice of Ben Ottewell, even if you don't know him by name. Ottewell is one of three singers in the band Gomez, and has sung lead on some of their more well known tracks Stateside. For his first solo album, Ottewell has crafted nine tracks dabbling in pop, rock and folk, maybe not a huge diversion from Gomez material, but the songs are so solid it is a noteworthy release.
"Shapes And Shadows" contains a mix of ballads and mid-tempo tracks, nothing too heavy, but it keeps your interest from beginning to end. It's a rather short album at 35 minutes, but there is nothing wrong with that when the material is strong. Most of the songs have an acoustic guitar base, but are fleshed out with bass, drums, piano and electric guitars. Ottewell is not necessarily breaking any new musical ground, but who cares when your songs are effective.
The ballad "All Brand New" has a sighing melody and a becoming string accompianment. Piano ballad "Chose" conjures sadness and beauty at the same time, while "Chicago" and "Take This Beach" also impress on the slower side of things. The title track has an uplifting undercurrent of keyboards and guitar while "Lightbulbs" boasts a grand chorus and melody.
The impressiveness of this solo album leads me to want to revisit some of Gomez' music. I've heard bits and pieces, but haven't paid them the attention I probably should. Much like a lot of the Gomez albums, this one has kind of fallen through the cracks in the States, but if you like melodic pop/rock, don't miss "Shapes And Shadows".
"Shapes And Shadows" was released in the U.S. February 15, 2011 on ATO Records.
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