Brett Anderson, Wilderness

I love Brett Anderson. Let me get that out of the way before I begin! Having said that, this new album is not as good as some of his other stuff. Whilst the songs are all lovely in their own way, it's pretty much down to a cello and a piano with very scant use of an acoustic guitar. I want a bit of "oomph!" when I'm listening to music. This is practically easy listening! On this album, the first track A Different Place is very sweet. And I also like Clowns and Back to You but I have to say I prefer the drum and guitar version on the original singles more than these versions. My favourite track is The Empress but I wish he wouldn't use the swear-word in it (it jars in an otherwise beautiful song) and I love Knife Edge too, cos we've all been there! Overall, I'd still give him 9 out of 10 but I think non-Brett fans would struggle to find something to love here. Sorry Brett.