Marc Almond - Shadows and Reflections
Perhaps best known for his work fronting synth pioneers Soft Cell, Marc Almond’s solo work has included torch songs, cabaret, chanson, Russian romance songs, industrial grind and baroque pop. This is an album of orchestral takes on torch songs and 60s pop that are, for the most part, covers. For those unfamiliar with the style, think of a more thoughtful and considered Last Shadow Puppets and you won’t be that far away.
Having been involved in a motorcycle accident that could have ended his career in the early 2000s, Almond is now singing in a (slightly) lower register and with more control than he did earlier in his career. Vocally this is one of his strongest sets. Covers of artists such as Bacharach, Julie Driscoll and Johnny Mandel are almost to be expected from Almond, although the likes of The Herd, The Yardbirds and The Action are rather more surprising. The arrangements and orchestration by long-time collaborator John Harle ensure that the songs form a cohesive body that works as an album.
This doesn’t quite hit the heights of Heart On Snow nor have the sense of mischief of Variete. That said, it is still worth seeking out, whether you are already a fan or not.
7/10
