After thoroughly enjoying the first two singles, "Sunrise" and "Fake," I bought the new Simply Red album and am not at all disappointed because the album is full of potential singles. The title cut "Home," as well as the tracks "Fake," "Something For You," and "It's You," would fit comfortably on a classic Motown record. "Fake," the current international single, is powerfully soulful and Mick rips it vocally. "Sunrise," the first single, takes extracts of the old Hall and Oates chestnut "I Can't Go For That" and gives it a winning update that sounds better with every listen. It's a perfect summertime song and a huge, well-deserved international hit, so.let's hope America doesn't drop the ball.
A cover of the Stylistics' classic "You Make Me Feel Brand New," is very faithful to the original, but the last minute of the song where Mick ad-libs is simply killer. He sounds incredible and hits the high notes perfectly. "Home Loan Blues" revisits the theme of their past hit, "Money's Too Tight To Mention." "Positively 4th Street" is a Bob Dylan cover with a folkish-country sound that fits Mick's vocals perfectly. "Lost Weekend" sounds like the jazzy cousin of "Sunrise," a perfect supper club track.
The Plan B Mix of "Money In My Pocket" is driving and feels quite urgent.
Home is the perfect album for a nice drive or sitting in front of the fireplace. To quote Mick, it really makes you long for the feeling of home. Wake up America, because Simply Red is back!
