Written by, partly produced by and featuring the multi-instrumental skills of Enuff z Nuff frontman Donnie Vie, his new solo album 'Wrapped Around My Middle Finger' has just been released and will be hard to prise away from the stereo as it is a refreshing and uplifting effort that is one of my favourite releases of the year so far.

Opening, and title track, 'Wrapped Around My Middle Finger' has an edgier feel than the more familiar side of EZN, fear not though as some familiar Beatlesque fare from Mr Vie is just around the corner. The Alice in Wonderland themed 'Wonderland' and 'Lisa' with its 'Daytripper' like intro are just two examples.

'Daddy's Girl' is a darker, emotional song which features some haunting guitars and piano, there is also a bit of a ballad in the track 'I Won't Let You Down' whilst 'Rattle On' has a light hearted and summery feel to it.

Other highlights on 'Wrapped Around My Middle Finger' include the faster paced album closer 'Smokin' Hot Lollipop', 'Flames of Love', which has the feel of classic EZN with added touches of Bon Jovi, and 'Now Ya Know' – the latter a big Beatley number with vocals that, at times, remind me of the late great Dennis Wilson's solo work.

'Wrapped Around My Middle Finger' is a great album and I hope the newly formed Donnie Vie Band make it over to Europe soon.

*****

Review by Nikk Gunns