Millionaires

by

James

Edit

Given that this is their first release after the majestic compilation "The Best of James", I admit that I was prepared to be disappointed. And yes, in the final reckoning several of the tracks here failed to move me. However, James albums have traditionally traded on the strength of a few classic songs, and Miilionaires is no exception.

Consider the evidence - Afro Lover is a bouncy track with cutting lyrics, just perfect for lazy summer afternoons, while the aptly-named Crash positively explodes from the speakers. However, the true highlights are the anthemic We're Going to Miss You (it makes you want to head down the pub, sink a few pints, and sing the chorus with your mates at the top of your lungs) and the gorgeous Just Like Fred Astaire, the most exquisite song The Waterboys never did.

Which is not to say that the rest of the album doesn't have its moments, but the fact remains that these four songs are so good you can justify the price of the CD on their name alone. Definitely worth a look.

I have several of James's CD's including "Seven", "Whiplash", and "The Best Of". "Seven" (IMHO) is the best one they've put out. "Whiplash" was ok at best, and "The Best Of" is a superb collection of their greatest tracks. With "Millionaires", the boys are brilliant with their brand of ethereal, down-to-earth, Beatlesque melodies, at least on the first seven tracks. Tracks 8 through 12, for some odd reason, haven't grown on me and are ok at best. "Dumb Jam" (Track 10) has Oasis written all over the place while "Vervaceous" (Track 12) starts out soft then gets weird towards the end (Sinead O'Connor sings the last part of the song).

Overall, this is a good album although not their best. If you're not familiar with James' music, start with the "The Best Of" and then with "Seven". Best tracks: "Just Like Fred Astaire", "I Know What I'm Here For", "We're Going To Miss You", and "Strangers" (a very touching and moving song I might add!).

P.S., Do get the Limited Edition since you're reading this (if and while you can). You get an additional disc which contains five live tracks and two music videos. Can't beat that!