BERNIE JOURNEY

Up the Charts + Free Download d[-_-]b

2011-09-25T15:32:00.001-04:00

WOW! Can't believe how fast my songs are moving up in the charts!

Please help me reach the top by streaming/downloading my songs...
&
liking/sharing my music on facebook...

Here's a new song upload and new free download for starters!

New! - A BETTER LIFE (Club Edit)
Free Download - A BETTER LIFE (Radio Edit)

Chart Positions (Singer Songwriter)
Local Rank: 4
National Rank: 39 +8
Global Rank: 64 +14

Bernie Journey - A BETTER LIFE (MAXI-SINGLE) A Medley

2011-01-14T17:56:00.000-05:00

Club & Radio DJ's Download Broadcast Quality Tracks HERE

A BETTER LIFE (MAXI-SINGLE) A Medley*

Features EYE OF THE STORM REMIX - CLUB MIX - METAL MIX

Original version available on the J2 Records album 'The World In the Eye of the Beholder'

Club & Radio DJ's Download Broadcast Quality Tracks Here: http://www.worksessions.com/users/view.cgi?id=1284448222

*YouTube Exclusive. Promotional Medley Mix Not Intended For Release.
Full Length Remix Versions appear on the 'A BETTER LIFE' MAXI-SINGLE available at Amazon and iTunes

Bernie Journey - A Better Life (Radio Edit)

2010-11-03T20:47:00.015-04:00

A BETTER LIFE (Maxi-Single) available 11/30/10 at Amazon and iTunes

Original version available on the J2 Records album 'The World In the Eye of the Beholder'

Club & Radio DJ's Download Broadcast Quality Tracks Here: http://www.worksessions.com/users/view.cgi?id=1284448222

Performing at Riverwide Productions Fundraiser

2010-10-06T19:18:00.014-04:00

Bernie Journey will be performing a quick set at the fundraiser for his friends at Riverwide Productions.

They are finishing their first movie "The One You Marry" which features his song "Everything"!

There will be raffles, drink specials and lots of dancing.

Come support the arts, mix 'n' mingle, and have a good time...The more the merrier!!

Host: RiverWide Productions (Melissa Smith, Lisa Mamazza, Melissa Dennis)
Location: The Mean Fiddler
266 West 47th St.
New York, NY US
$10 gets you in the door
When: Wednesday, October 20, 8:00PM-1:00AM
Phone: (917) 583-6160

Bernie Journey In the Studio with Dave Ahl

2010-09-25T17:04:00.004-04:00

Dave Ahl putting the finishing touches on the Eye of the Storm Remix of A Better Life.

More to come...

Pre-order 'A BETTER LIFE' Maxi-Single

2010-08-16T12:59:00.030-04:00

CLICK HERE to pre-order 'A BETTER LIFE' from Amazon.Track Listings
1. Radio Edit
2. Club Mix
3. Metal Version Remix
4. Eye Of The Storm Remix

2010-07-26T13:42:00.009-04:00

"Call On Me" added to Jango Radio http://soc.li/ECQF7C

2010-05-04T12:10:00.007-04:00

Bernie Journey's "EYE OF THE BEHOLDER" is on Facebook http://bit.ly/HcEbM

Signed CD Contest - The Winners!

2010-01-19T11:28:00.008-05:00

Thanks for all the submissions for our ‘Signed CD’ contest!As promised, we’ve picked 5 winners on a random basis and each will be mailed a signed copy of Bernie Journey's 'The World In the Eye of the beholder' CD within the next few days.

Are you part of the lucky few? Just check below:
- Teresa (USA)
- Annie (Canada)
- Scott (USA)
- Pete (UK)
- Gerald (USA)

Congratulations to them!

Stay tuned, another contest is coming soon...

2010-01-09T14:02:00.005-05:00

Bernie Journey will be on BLOGTALKRADIO.COM/LASERDOG this Sunday at 6:00P.M.-E.S.T.

Brand New Contest

2009-12-15T17:49:00.019-05:00

Win a signed copy of Bernie Journey's

"The World In the Eye of the Beholder"!

RULES FOR ENTRY:
* Contest open to all participants worldwide. Five (5) winners will be selected at random. No purchase necessary.
* One email entry per person.
* Submit your email entry to:

EMAIL: Contests@BernieJourney.com
SUBJECT: Bernie Journey Contest

* Include: full name, mailing address, and email address.
* Deadline for entries: Sunday, January 17th, 2010 @ 11:59pm Pacific Time.

Good luck to all!

Bloggers: Copy & paste this contest into your blog in its entirety and receive a complementary CD. Email Contests@BernieJourney.com with the subject line "Blog Bernie Journey", and include the address to your blog in the body of the email. We'll then check out your blog and make sure you receive your CD.Win a signed copy of Bernie Journey's "The World In the Eye of the Beholder"!

BERNIE JOURNEY LIVE! 10/23 7PM @ DUPLEX THEATRE

2009-09-29T12:22:00.011-04:00

It's always a fun time at the Duplex and my show is a great excuse for anyone to come party!
Hope to see you there...

BERNIE JOURNEY LIVE! FRIDAY OCTOBER 23rd, 2009 7PM (Arrive early)

THE DUPLEX THEATRE Call 212.255.5438 To Make Reservations

$10 cover + 2 drink minimum

Description: Bernie Journey presents his pop/dance music during an up-close intimate performance.

The Duplex Theatre is located on the corner of 7th Ave & Christopher St in Greenwich Village. Take the 1 or 9 train to the Christopher St exit.

2009-08-15T14:05:00.007-04:00

A Great Deal! Bernie Journey's 'The World In the Eye of the Beholder' CD at CDUniverse.com

Celebrate the GAP's 40th Anniversary!

2009-08-01T21:39:00.018-04:00

BERNIE JOURNEY will be performing live in-store at the GAP in Stamford, CT!

On August 20, 2009, every Gap store in the U.S. and Canada will host an exclusive, live acoustic music night to celebrate Gap’s 40 years of heritage in jeans and music.

OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC

Date and Time: 08/20/2009 7:00 PM
Location:
GAP (Clothing Store)
100 Greyrock Pl
Stamford, CT map
Phone: (203)327-3448

Bernie's best selling Album as of today!

2009-07-29T22:46:00.022-04:00

'The World In the Eye of the Beholder' is Bernie Journey's best selling album on iTunes as of today! - Available at iTunes

Help support BERNIE JOURNEY, and win cool stuff. Now is your chance!

2009-06-28T17:05:00.012-04:00

Join Bernie Journey's Street Team and help spread "EYE OF THE BEHOLDER" the second single and title track from Bernie Journey's sophomore album "THE WORLD IN THE EYE OF THE BEHOLDER". The street teamer who receives the most plays will receive a collectible Flip MinoHD (a "Top Pick" at Bernie Journey's Merch Shop)!

You can access the mission directly at ReverbNation for more details, including mission updates and a Street Team discussion board.

Exclusive Free Download

2009-06-24T14:00:00.015-04:00

Download "EYE OF THE BEHOLDER" (for a limited time!!) through Windows Media.

New Single Announced

2009-05-22T22:22:00.025-04:00

"EYE OF THE BEHOLDER"
WORLD PREMIERE
FRIDAY JUNE 19th, 2009

Check out myspace.com/berniejourney on friday June 19th to hear the New Single before its official release* and learn more about his new album "The World In the Eye of the Beholder".

*Radio Add Date: Monday June 22nd 2009.

Interview from JuniorsCave.com

2009-04-11T12:32:00.026-04:00

By: Isaac Davis Jr., MBA
(Juniorscave.com)

Bernie Journey is very passionate about his music. He sings with a purpose that will sure to make you smile thinking of happy thoughts. With an angelic face and voice to match it, Bernie certainly is in his own element when it comes to making music. In this exclusive interview with our Webzine, Bernie talks one on one about his music and where he is heading in general. Enjoy!

Isaac: Hi Bernie, Welcome to your interview with Junior's Cave. Now that 2008 has officially ended, what are your reflections of the year 2008 for you as an artist?

Bernie: Very glad to have finished my second album which took me almost a year and a half to record. Now that the album is finished I am glad to put out new singles and share my music with my listeners.

Isaac: What has drawn you to wanting to make music?

Bernie: With my current release I wanted to record the songs about events that have been the most meaningful and life-changing for me... along with the hopes that they would inspire listeners as well -- and that's really why I made this album.

Isaac: Elaborate a little about whom were your biggest influences in the music industry and why?

Bernie Journey: Aside from growing up in Cleveland, the home of rock 'n roll, my musical influence is Chrissie Hynde of The Pretenders. She's from Akron, Ohio; I am from Cleveland, Ohio, and have been influenced by not only her musical stylings but, also her strong rebel spirit. She is someone who fights for, and speaks loudly and clearly about topics and causes she believes in. Creatively, she is a fantastic songwriter who has crafted many popular hits and continues putting out really good music over the years.

Isaac: Let's talk about what you feel you will bring to the music industry?

Bernie: Being named 'Bernie Journey' it can appear to many that I have changed my name and am trying to create some sort of packaged pop act. I can't count the times I've been asked what my real name is?! Over time my audience comes to find that NOT ONLY is my name authentic and original but also my songs including lyrics and the way I choose to present myself!

Isaac: If you had an opportunity to work with one artist or group, who would it be and why?

Bernie: Madonna. I think if I ever needed advice on any aspect of the music business - she'd be the one who'd know! She's a living, breathing example for anyone seeking longevity in a music career.

Isaac: How would you describe your music to others?

Bernie: I feel I best covey myself and my thoughts and wishes through my music. When I have to describe my music I always say, "it is Pop/Rock with a little dance and R&B, similar to George Michael or Seal".

Isaac: What can fans expect from your latest CD, you are working on currently? What is the inspiration behind the CD?

Bernie: My next CD will be very pop and fun! It also has a rebellious streak to it and will be a lot louder with an in-your-face attitude. I think I've been releasing a lot of pent up energies and aggression with my new songs I've been working on!

Isaac: Where can fans locate you at online?

Bernie: My own site BernieJourney.com, twitter.com/berniejourney, myspace.com/berniejourney

Isaac: What can fans expect from you in 2009?

Bernie: Releasing singles with remixes from my album 'The World in the Eye of the Beholder'.

Isaac: Time for some shout outs to your family, friends, and fans?

Bernie: I'd like to send warm hellos to my sister Karla Journey and her girlfriend Denise DeBratto along with my friends and back-up singers Lisa Mamazza and Julia Bugnacki. Finally to my fans and listeners for all their support and encouragement.

Isaac: Final words...

Bernie: Be true to yourself!

♪ 4 More Songs Uploaded Today! ♫

2009-04-06T10:09:00.020-04:00

4 More Songs Uploaded Today! http://www.myspace.com/berniejourney

Review of Bernie Journey's 'The World In The Eye Of The Beholder'

2009-04-01T13:38:00.019-04:00

Banking on the eletro-R&B beats of the late 80s, Bernie Journey’s “The World in the Eye of the Beholder” is the newest dance club staple. Pounding bass lines with sweet, rhythmic lyrics, Journey idolizes the ambience of neon lights against a black background.
Opening with an overdubbed hypnotic mix, “Dream On” sets the stage for a late night dance fest. Showing influences of several genres, including pop, dance, R&B and especially jazz, Bernie Journey flashes simple musical elements against classic, electric beats. A few tracks down,“Just a Dream” picks up where “Dream On” left off – a dance starter with a touch of a cabaret jazz influence .
Throughout “The World in the Eye of the Beholder,” reminisces of past decade’s dance tunes taunt the audience’s rhythmic movements – with each song sending a jolt of subwoffing energy throughout the crowd. Journey plays with layers of background tonics track to track, while mildly diversifying his voice. The consistent delivery of smooth, soft lyrics gives a sort of tonality to the album, regardless of deepening complexity.
The featured track, “Everything,” embodies the nightlife ranging from Journey’s native Cleveland to New York City. Divulging in romantic twists of lyrics chopping in between singular bouncing notes, “Everything” epitomizes the aura of glow sticks in a Midori sour. On the track, Journey claims that he can “never ask for more,” though for entertainment purposes, it is recommended to always, always try for much more –especially while exploring a niche genre such as dance music.
Bernard Journey does attract the audience with his club hopping tunes, throwing each one into a sea of wavering, vibrant dancing. While his slower, more jazz influenced tunes show a little more virtuosic integrity, they are few and forgettable beneath eletro-pop repetitions.
Adding some classical influences into the mix, the title track “The Worldin the Eye of the Beholder” is an upbeat, anthem of looking at the possibilities with a lover. Sweet, optimistic perspectives become an enchanting, new age love song.
With obvious influences of George Michael, Bernie Journey, born Bernard David Journey, has noted that he was raised around great rock 'n' roll. While his output ranges far from classical rock ‘n’ roll, Journey resembles more of a Rick Astley (the proprietor of a soulful voice complimenting electric beats with the 1987 hit, “Never Gonna Give You Up”), sans the pulled-back arrangements. Both musicians use their diverse voices with synchronic ranges of tonal elements.
As a debut album, “The World in the Eye of the Beholder” creates Journey’s affluence of hearty throwback pop. His lyrics have an innocent simplicity to them, while the influence of several musical elements and genres combine to create a thumping, crash of club electricity. And while it still is just a debut, the strengths of his compositions and vocal potential will hopefully help direct him in future endeavors.

For more information about Bernie Journey and “The World in the Eye ofthe Beholder,” head over to http://www.berniejourney.com/.

Nicole DeLawder (2009-04-01)

Bernie's best selling CD as of today!

2009-03-24T00:18:00.018-04:00

The 'EVERYTHING MAXI-SINGLE' is Bernie Journey's best selling CD as of today! - CD available at Amazon.

Review of Bernie Journey's 'The World In The Eye Of The Beholder'

2009-03-06T14:18:00.015-05:00

Though I have never been a huge fan of dance music, at least as far as pure listening goes, one cannot argue with the role dance music has played throughout the history of rock and roll. Rock and roll evolved out of jump blues (with a tinge of country thrown in. Don't believe it? Chuck Berry originally wrote Maybelline as a country song and if you listen close, you'll hear the country beat in the song) which was the prevalent dance music at the time among blacks. When jump blues conquered racial boundaries, it became rock and roll, which became the primary dance music from then on. Think of all the sock hops, teen dance shows on TV, the dance crazes of the '60's such as the Twist as well as the hippie noodle dance and the endless twirling that started in the '60's with the Grateful Dead and still continues to this day. Think of James Brown, P-Funk and disco, the new wave dances like the pogo, slam dancing, the swing craze of the mid-'90's - the list goes on. Rock and roll and dance are synonomous.

So why are the rock and roll camps and the house/dance camps so at odds with each other? I believe it started with disco, which was fighting for air time with Foreigner, Led Zeppelin and all of those other cock rock bands that were popular at the time. It definitely divided camps between those who wanted to rock and those who preferred to dance. Since then, for most people, it's one or the other with simultaneous progression for both types of music. As alternative rock started making big waves in the mid-'80's, house music was beginning to get popular in Europe and slowly started making it's way into the more fashionable cities of the US, such as LA and New York City. Since then, more innovations have happened in the world of dance than rock and roll music, but rock has, in turn, reinvigorated itself by adding elements of dance to mix things up just as Journey does here with his CD, as he seemingly wants to unite both camps. While his music is firmly and unmistably rooted in dance and house, Journey's music has a definite rock and roll attitude that cannot be denied. While that may be where most of the similarities end, Journey's music incorporates so many different elements, just calling it dance music doesn't seem to do it justice either.

The first song is an interesting opening to this album. The song, Dream On, has sort of a modern R&B based sound but also blends in elements of old jazz such as a muted trumpet and some interesting piano lines. The song then toys with a house beat which adds an interesting effect as the vocals are looped and manipulated. A Better Life, the next song, is straight ahead synth-pop and is quite catchy. I would think that this song would be a definite single as it sounds perfect for the radio and has very good production values. Everything, which follows, is mixed right in next so there is hardly a break between songs. More synth-pop but this song has more of a club, dance-type feel and definitely would get people out on the dance floor by itself, though I can hear that a remix might make it even better. Just A Dream is next and starts out like more of a torchy number with simple percussion on hi-hat and snare and simple piano. Horns come in later and it reminds me of a modern "Fever". A sax solo seals the deal. Call On Me returns full force to the techno pulse and is pretty much a straight ahead dance number. My ears may be deceiving me but I hear a bit of a song from Grease in the middle of this in the way the meter of the lyrics plays out. Cage starts out interestingly with banging and jungle sounds and some disconcerting keyboard noises until the song morphs into an almost Indian sounding number with off-kilter percussion loops and then morphs again into a more traditional synth-dance number. Very interesting and engaging song though definitely not a single per se. Eye of The Beholder starts out with a lot of classical elements and strings until breaking into a synth pop number reminiscent of something by '80's band ABC's The Look Of Love. The next two songs are definitely for the dance floor and sort of blend into each other. Very slickly produced and something I could definitely hear at clubs as well as on the radio. In all, a very commercial set of songs with great production values.

Though, as I have said above, dance music, house, techno, jungle etc. whatever you want to call it has never really been my thing, I can tell when it's done well and in the case of this album by Bernie Journey, I can definitely "hear" these songs on the radio for the most part. It's a refreshing blend of different styles that shows Journey as a very versatile performer and definitely an artist to watch.

Scott Homewood (2009-03-06)

Review of Bernie Journey's 'The World In The Eye Of The Beholder'

2009-02-27T13:55:00.015-05:00

Bernie Journey’s album, The World In the Eye of the Beholder is a blend of R&B, soul and dance music. At times recalling Prince and Australian up-and-comer Sam Sparro with his slower club beats, Journey’s smooth vocals captivate the listener. On heartfelt second track, “A Better Life” he repeatedly sings, “There must be better life than this” and you believe him wholeheartedly. “Eye Of the Beholder” envelops intriguing beats and fitting lyrics throughout the song, as does most of the rest of his album.

While most tracks blend together with Journey’s vocals and club centric beats, “Just A Dream” switches gears a bit and is the distinguishing track on the album. A fitting jazzier vibe than previous tracks, light percussion and horn features thrive throughout the song and bring welcoming versatility to The World In the Eye of the Beholder.

The nine track album is perhaps best fit to be played in a swanky New York lounge. However, those hoping for diversity will be disappointed. While Journey’s voice is deep and sultry at times, little variation in vocals and tempo leave something to be desired. There is no question of Journey’s talent here, just a wish of something more unexpected encompassing The World In the Eye of the Beholder.

Annie Reuter (2009-02-27)

CD RELEASE PARTY- Sunday, January 25th, 2009 | 9:00 PM

2009-01-06T14:05:00.019-05:00

NO COVER! 21+ ONLY!

Bernie Journey will perform a live intimate performance at 169 Bar in NYC on 1/25/09 to Celebrate the release of his new album THE WORLD IN THE EYE OF THE BEHOLDER.

On-sale that night. Space is limited. Open Bar with purchase of CD (at the Event) from 9 PM to 10 PM. Showtime 10 PM.

LOCATION: 169 East Broadway (Cross Streets: Rutgers St and East Broadway) Essex & Canal streets are close by.New York City Ph: 212-473-8866

DIRECTIONS: Take the F train to East Broadway exit, or the B train to Grand & Christie, walk East to Essex then South to East Broadway.

ARRIVE EARLY: Guests admitted until venue is full.

Prepare For A Journey Through ’The World In The Eye Of The Beholder’ (top40-charts.com)

2008-12-11T14:00:00.015-05:00

Dance music sensation Bernie Journey explodes onto the dance music market with the follow up release to his self-titled 2003 CD, exuding the ever popular sound that George Michael so brilliantly defined. Bernie pushes that to the nth degree as he adds soul to the hypnotic rhythms of his genre, expanding his dimension. On The World in the Eye of the Beholder, Bernie satisfies the palettes of many a dance music fan and takes you on his very own personal journey into his worldly musical creations.

Originally from Cleveland, Ohio and now a current New York City resident, Bernie Journey's January 27, 2009 9-song self-released CD on his own J2 Records displays his highly emotive blend of r&b, soul and dance music. All tunes were penned by the man himself with the hope that he might inspire others in life. Take a listen to his songs 'A Song of Hope Everlasting' and 'A Better Life' and you will hear exactly where Bernie is coming from.

The first single 'Everything' (track No 3) has a pulsating bass groove that makes you want to move all over the dance floor.

Come along on this personal Journey into dance and song with Bernie Journey's infectious, sleek and polished adult pop songs on his January 27th release The World in the Eye of the Beholder.

Who is Bernie Journey? A review.

2007-03-29T08:23:00.019-04:00

Bernie Journey.
Website/music review.

Here's an example of a musician who has identified a niche market for his music and has started to make some moves towards his career. "Bernie Journey" got my attention with a catchy title so I wanted to know more...Turned out this was actually his real name (and here I was thinking it was something else) sorry Bernie.

Who does Bernie sound like?
While I'm not a fan of George Michael (I remember when WHAM was the big thing) it's clear that some listeners are and would probably love Bernie's music which has that "adult pop" feel to it and is reminiscent of George's later stuff or Depeche Mode (cut back electronic beats and synth). The music itself, though not my style still wasn't bad and got my feet tapping.

There were some good honest reviews on the site and samples to download (including some mixes) which I think was a plus in the artist's favor. I did have one criticism about Bernie's web page and that was a lack of photos of the artist - Just one which was featured on the album cover (and I'm hoping Bernie adds more to his site in the future).

www.berniejourney.com

Mark Spivey, 'Getting Your Music Out There'

Review from THE CRITICAL REVIEW

2003-03-07T11:00:00.021-05:00

This artist presents us with a CD that offers us some nice R&B, Soul, and Pop/Dance sounds. This is his debut album, and it proves to be a decent effort. The music has a solid beat, good rhythms, and lots of musical layers.

Made of 8 tracks it had good openers, "Jump In and Out of My Love" and "Wounded Child." On "Ran Away From Me" the rich thick organ and cool rhythms make this tune a cool winner. This is impressive and better than 80% (or more) of the stuff (can be called junk too) on Top 40 Radio. R&B formats should eat this up.

"Say A Prayer" is a slower, lush and soulful effort. From the electronic beats and guitars of previous cuts, here the mood is acoustic and ballady. Clearly shows the artists versatility. Next on "What Happened To Our Love?" Journey shows he can maneuver to a totally different mood and style. The percussion and vocal layers give the tune a somewhat dreamy and far-off sense. It plainly puts the question to musical feel. Good stuff.

The song "Only My Love" has the artist changing approach. For some reason I was reminded a bit of DAVID BOWIE's late-80's, early 90's sounds. I even thought I heard aspects of CULTURE CLUB too. A song that works with a laid back beat. The debut project closes with "Memories of You" a slowish R&B tune that has rich tones and textures.

This is a good opening CD for this artist/songwriter/musician. Very enjoyable and accessible sounds. It is a winner with refreshing sounds that avoid the in-your-face style of many of today's irritating artists. Recommended.

Editor, 'The CRITICAL REVIEW'

Review from Demorama

2003-02-13T11:08:00.023-05:00

I'm sure I'm not the only one who audibly groaned when reading the name of my latest Demorama assignment. "This is gonna hurt BAD" I said to myself after viewing the pouting, boy-toy photo on his MP3.com sample page.

In retrospect, I wasn't too far off.

Pssst...Bernie, this look DIED in the mid-80's for a reason.

Electronica abounds in Bernie's R&B/soul offerings that gets your foot tapping right away. Before you know it, you'll be humming his hooks while admiring his looks. (What ANOTHER groan??). Artistic potential follows this guy around like a lost puppy. Judging from the photo, so would about six million pre-pubescent girls. George Michael, eat your heart out!

Bernie actually lists George as an influence and I'd wholeheartedly agree. Add a few more harmonic vocal overdubs and I could add Depeche Mode to that list. "Jump In And Out Of My Love" starts with an urban dance synth/drum combination that reminds me of progressive jazz superstar faves 3rd Force (very William-Aura-esque). This same stylistic thread weaves its way through Bernie's music in "Set Me Free" (dedicated to his parents-VERY cool!) and "What Happened (To Our Love)." While the beat is somewhat sterile at times, it's infectious nature more than compensates. Bernie's released a self-titled 8 track CD (no pun intended), more info available at his website.

Todd Schneider, 'Demorama.com'

Review from Spitting Glass Stars

2003-01-27T14:18:00.022-05:00

Now that George Michael appears to have all but finished his career by
trying to be Bono, rubbishing ‘pop’ bands and hanging out with Geri
Halliwell (the celebrity leper), there’s surely a gap in the market for this. Bernie produces grown-up pop music, which although it should be a
contradiction in terms, is actually really popular and largely due to Mr
Michael and his string of ‘serious’ pop hits. You know the style - it’s
slinky faux-soulful pop that is played in the allegedly ‘posh’ meat market nightclubs, which are recognisable as posh mainly by the drinks being slightly more extortionate than usual.

This CD starts off with probably the best track - ‘Jump In And Out Of My Love’ - and it sets the tone for most of the album which continues in a slow-dance disco kind of way. There is a bit of variety, with some ill-advised twiddly guitar on a couple of the tracks and although clearly an attempt to provide a bit more funk, it sounds too jarring and harsh in the context of his voice and melodies. The real quality tracks are the smooth / cheesy ones, but at least the others show a bit of eclecticism, and break the CD up a bit.

The last two tracks up the cheddar factor, with the type of disposable pop that boy bands regularly take to the top of the charts. Track 8 ’Memories of You’ in particular - it’s easy to imagine this being sung by a Westlife on Top of the Pops. Of course he’s probably more interested in making these hits himself, particularly as some of them are obviously quite personal (‘Set Me Free’ is dedicated to his parents). But sell them to one of the big players and he could make a fortune as the songwriter.

Overall he’s got some good little pop songs here, but he does need to lighten it up a bit in places. Even if the subject matter is serious and sad (wounded inner children and the like), he should perhaps approach every song as a potential Christmas number one - get some more sparkly and shimmery bits in so people can happily sing along as they sway unsteadily around their office party. George Michael’s piousness has been one of the reasons for his downfall, so please take note and give us a smile.

Sarah, 'Spitting Glass Stars'