Former Stiltskin and Genesis vocalist returns with a follow-up to last year’s excellent ‘Change’ album. Ray Wilson writes a damn fine tune and has a melodious voice that suits the mainly acoustic tunes on here.

‘These Are The Changes’ starts the album off with a poignant view on the current ‘war on terror’ and past wars - simple melody overlaid with key statements from politicians and victim’s families. Stiltskin’s hit ‘Inside’ gets a modern workout - more distorted backing and heavier guitar passages. Actually better than the original version!

Other treats include ‘The Fool In Me’, the plaintive piano led ‘Sometimes’ and ‘Pumpkinhead’ – the heaviest track on here - Smashing Pumpkins in feel.

Ray Wilson has done it again and surely he deserves much wider recognition this time around. The music doesn’t fit a pigeonhole and there really is something for all tastes to enjoy on here.

Album review

****

Review by Jason Ritchie

***** Out of this world | **** Pretty damn fine |
*** OK, approach with caution unless you are a fan |
** Instant bargain bin fodder | * Ugly. Just ugly