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Amazon.co.uk Review
Any doubts concerning the longevity of Will Young's
career post Pop Idol can be put to rest with one
listen of Friday's Child. His first release, From
Now On, was a mismatch of covers and styles--hardly
a good vehicle for the singer who had to go through so
much for the privilege. Now Young has taken what he's
good at (soulful voice, housewife appeal) and fed it
through some well considered songs and rich production.
"Leave Right Now" is pure, premium white
soul-pop--superbly written, expertly delivered, with a
refrain that is as catchy as any of the disposable pop
currently being consumed by the teenage masses.
"Love the One You're With" is an
acoustic-based, gospel-tinged mélange of "mmms"
and "ooohs" and almost tips the title track
from being the best song on the album. "Friday's
Child" is an epic, stirring, string-based cut that
has the luxurious feeling of a sunny afternoon spent
reading the papers and wandering from pub to pub.
Friday's Child is a timely reminder that pop
isn't just for pre-pubescents. There are no half-baked
album fillers here (hello Rachel Stephens), no D-side
rejects and definitely no Stevie Wonder covers. Will
Young has produced an album of substance and for that we
should all be grateful. --Cortman Virtue
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