The first thing we learn about Dan Clews is that the lead single from his album ‘That’s Enough for Me’ garnered support from Bob Harris on Radio 2 and was playlisted on BBC Radio London. Well, that’s almost enough for me, too, and I’m in two minds whether or not I should deign to bore my eardrums with what will inevitably a collection of well-considered, highly crafted and nicely produced, heartfelt but ultimately dull songs. But what kind of a reviewer would I be not to give Dan a fair hearing?
Listening to the mellow acoustic country rock of ‘Take One Away’, in which he sings ‘Show me the door, don’t leave me in the dark too long’. I must admit I’m tempted. But patience is a virtue, and given time, Dan proves he’s got growing potential. The album is well-realised, and there’s no doubting Dan’s musical or lyrical abilities as he conjures images of people and places and recalls a broad range of emotions. In fact, while it would be all too easy to dismiss Clews’ sincere singer-songwriterly fare as being true to type, it would be unjust to do so. Easy on the ear, but not light on quality or range, ‘Tourist In My Own Backyard’ manages to rise above the sea of mediocrity in a crowded field. Terrible sleeve, though.
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Dan Clews Online
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