The UK music press continues to worship at the altar of Duffy based on the premise of her opening single ‘Rockferry’. This time however they might have a point, her new single ‘Mercy’ shifts thing up a gear and shows an effortless vocal motoring through a song that mixes a chic sixties Carnaby Street sensibility with a hint of 21st Century production. This is the second time she has dropped a hot potato in our lap. This bodes very well for the album that is due out on March 3rd. For those that can’t wait however the single is out on February 25th.
Envy & Other Sins release the single ‘Highness’ on February 11th. I knew bugger all about this bunch and when I read they were the product of a talent show on Channel 4 for bands that write and perform their own music, I confess I did stifle an indignant sneer. However this isn’t bad stuff, stompy pop rock with shades of literate wordplay in the lyrics that do actually harkens back to more erudite bands of yesteryear. Very nicely produced as well, definitely worth a listen and on the strength of this single I shall keep an ear cocked for the album.
Sheryl Crow will be releasing her digital only single ‘Love Is Free’ on the 11th as well. The opening shot to her new album ‘Detours’ this is harmless enough with it’s homespun acoustic production it has a warmth to it that should remind people of her debut album ‘Tuesday Night Music Club’ it’s no coincidence either, the producer of said debut Bill Bottrell is back in the pilot’s seat for her latest recordings. While this doesn’t shake the foundations, it’s harmless enough.
