Jules Shear has been an influential force on the singer/songwriter scene for a number of years, but as with many great artists they operate just outside the mainstream. They have a small (but incredibly loyal) group of fans, but the rest of the world never seems to catch up...here's your chance, 'Allow Me' is an excellent starting point. He has the ability to write succinct and perceptive lyrics laced with pointed observances - it's a great mix that creates intelligent lyrics with 'bite'. But it's the melodies that grab the listener, every single track is perfectly formed, there are some superb, almost pop-like hooks that shine out on both the acoustic and full band tracks.
This is an album without any filler, it's a consistently great collection with many highlights - the folk-rocker 'Just Another Railroad Train' (with harmonies by Suzzy Roche), the haunting 'The Judge & Margaret Brady' and the catchy hook of 'The More That I'm Around You'.
The disc leans more towards a fuller sound than it does folk, but for those looking for something with a little edge this is a brilliant collection.
"...an artist at the top of his craft - melody & words working in unison...."

£13.49