James Velvet, Just Plain Jane & Other Modest Proposals (Mr Lucky, 2007) |
James Velvet has a nice, uncomplicated approach to his music that is ideally suited to Just Plain Jane & Other Modest Proposals, a collection of songs that range from the simple and straightforward to the quietly humorous. The latter is to the fore on the wonderfully crafted "Mr. Hedge Your Bets." There is a fair amount of quirky, humorous writing again on a darker subject matter on "It Just Happens." Basically this is a fun album that touches more than the funny bone. Like all the best writing, when he is being funny he is also teasing our consciences. Throughout the 11 tracks, Velvet marries this talent to beautiful music and performance. by Nicky Rossiter |