This is the second album by Glyn Bailey and is one you will undoubtedly have missed, as it is only available at www.glynbailey.com.

From first listen it is obvious that Glyn is another in a long line of performers influenced by artists such as Jacques Brel, Scott Walker and David Bowie, amongst others. His voice sometimes sounds like that of a Bowie tribute artist, his music, however, reflects his wider influences. I have to say this is what first brought Mr Bailey to my attention as it is very much the type of thing I enjoy.

This is not, however, a case of something you may have heard a hundred times before. Not only are there some great tunes here, but the lyrics can be highly original and witty, but at other times quite touching or even genuinely disturbing. On ‘Moonwalkers’ he sings about how there were twelve men who walked on the moon but we are currently down to nine still living. There will come a time when there will be only one man who can say he has walked on the Moon and this will doubtless spark renewed interest. ‘Glory’ tells the story of a couple who have lost a baby. It really is very moving indeed, and I am a stiff upper lip sort of chap. ‘The Clown’ tells the story of a paedophile whom, as a clown, has access to children. Musically, this song reminds me of very early Bowie. There is much here to enjoy.

There is also some stuff I really could do without. The final track, ‘Ballad of Dino’, is over eight minutes long and for my money outstays its welcome well before the end. I am also not fond of a track called ‘The Crow’. These two numbers owe much more to Brel than Bowie and I am forced to conclude that this is what spoils it for me, through perhaps not you? The sleeve features the lyrics, which is a big plus as they can be read without the music and still be rather good, and is also well illustrated. There is only one image throughout the entire sleeve which I do not care for, it’s hideous, but sadly it is also the cover. Oh well.

If this sounds in any way appealing visit www.glynbailey.com and you can hear excerpts from every track.