Sitting in between 2000's live release, and a new label album due later in 2002 comes 'Sweet Mistakes', an independently released collection of songs that covers a huge range of styles. The low-key, independent release approach allow Ellis to explore directions and musical styles that may not survive a full label release - it's a real mixture of themes, from the usual acoustic Ellis Paul ('Kristian's Song'), to country rock ('Rollaway Bed'), to hip-hop beats ('The Martyr's Lounge'), and pop/rock ('3000 Miles'). The title track is an excellent singer/songwriter pop number, and has been included in the Farrelly Brothers movie 'Shallow Hal', and is certainly one of the highlights from the 12 songs here.
Despite the fact that this is a collection of songs rather than an album with a definite theme and feel, the songs are carefully sequenced and flow well.
In may ways this is classic Ellis Paul, superb songwriting, and the lyrics and melodies are as strong as ever; it's just the execution that's a little different to usual.
'Sweet Mistakes' is refreshing collection, and one that gives us an insight into the freedom and experimentation afforded to an established artist releasing an independent disc.

£13.49