Yeeee-Aaargh! (Cowboy - Erasure)

Member Name: dcoare

Product:	Cowboy - Erasure
Date:	14/01/04 (26 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Andy's fantastic vocal range, Wonderful synth pop

Disadvantages: Erasure's "lull"

Well, I have to start by saying that I have always been a BIG Erasure fan. I don't agree with those that say that you must be gay to enjoy their music. In my opinion, their sexual preferences should have no influence over the decision to like their easy listening pop treats.

I must admit to believing that this may not be their best effort, but it still contains some very noteworthy songs. It doesn't delve into the realms of trance experimentalism that ventured on the previous album "Erasure".

So, let's get reviewing...

----Rain----

The opener is a classic slice of Erasure pop, with a bopping bass track and various levels of synth surrounding Andy's glorious vocals. Classic chorus, but still not really at the standard we come to expect.

----Worlds on fire----

Aaaah! Here we go. This is more like it. A slower track with all the hallmarks of Andy and Vince's brilliant writing abilities.

----Reach out----

This one starts by bleeping, then begins to pound with a fantastic rhythm. Unfortunately, the chorus lets down what promised so much.

----In my arms----

The first single release from this album is truly a belter. Although it didn't chart extremely high, it was frequently played on radio stations across the country. Andy's vocals are magnificent, and the duo's writing talents are on show again.

----Don't say your love is killing me----

The second single is poor in comparison. A good chorus is spoiled by everything that surrounds it. Fair to say this isn't one of my favourites.

----Precious----

This, on the other hand, probably is my favourite track. A cracking drum track mixes with classic pop tunes during the chorus. As always, Andy's vocals swoon and dip in all the right places. Turn this one up.

----Treasure----

This track rolls along with a narrative by Andy that bursts
into full flight for the chorus. Very reminisent of some early Erasure.

----Boy----

Another slower track, but really not up to their standards. The chorus seems disjointed, and for once Andy's vocals don't show off the best of his voice.

----How can I say----

Again, a song that begins promisingly enough, but then it slips into a chorus which doesn't quite work. A nice bridge between verse and chorus still doesn't save this one.

----Save me darling----

Interesting from the off, this one chugs into life. Andy's warbling saves this from being bland. By the end you could almost sing along.

----Love affair----

A slower track with beautiful vocals from Andy. Starts with just the vocals but soon leads into a ballad featuring acoustic guitars(although you never know, they might just be synth). A fine finish to an album.


As I have said, not what I would rate as their best album. I would only suggest this as a purchase to hardened Erasure fans. Although they can usually pull off some of the finest choruses available, the duo seem to have fallen short for this outing.

Get yourself a copy of "Chorus" to truly understand how good Erasure are.

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