Play 90 second soundbite of 'Rich Man, Poor Man' @ 'CD quality'
'The Colourful Truth' is Anthony's latest, completely home-grown, album release; a sparsely instrumented acoustic work that allows Anthony's distinctive and at times unusual voice to work its magic make its mark. Strong songs, simplistic but heartfelt delivery - it's all there to be experienced and enjoyed - 'The Colourful Truth' by Stuart Anthony leaves you in no doubt about this guy's capabilities and potential.
As I listen I can hear a few influences popping up every now and again; Nick Drake, Verve, Roger Waters, Neil Young - but none of those influences are allowed to do any more than tinge and flavour Anthony's own delivery - enhancements but not copying. Anthony's nu-folk music has a timeless feel to it - just as a Neil Young song can sound fresh as a daisy years and years after release, Stuart Anthony's songs contain that element of longevity and sustainability - great thing to have in yer armoury!! And, Anthony's scant accompaniment here lays bare his vocal intricacies and foibles; occasional waverings, slight but somehow cute unsteady delivery, nuances not faults - all is there to be heard and I have to say, enjoyed. Anthony puts his soul on the line as he sings from the heart - his voice absolutely exposed but also his poetic lyrics made totally accessible and all the better for it. This is an open and honest album of fine songs delivered with conviction and believability!
'The Colourful Truth' is a real grower too! As it unfolds through its eight damn fine tracks, it draws you in, and as the final notes decay and fall silent you're left wanting more and with no choice but to press 'play' again. This is a real stripped down, gritty and well constructed work and 'The Colourful Truth' is an apt description of Stuart Anthony's open and grounded approach to things acoustic. It's simple, it's beautifully real and 'The Colourful Truth' by Stuart Anthony is right on the money. For me, Anthony's realism is what makes the difference here; although his songs are individualistic and original, it's Anthony's gutsy accessibility that makes the difference. I'm not sure that 'The Colourful Truth' by Stuart Anthony is exactly where it's at at the moment though; Anthony is possibly just too left of centre to be totally commercial but, again, that's what makes the guy so interesting!! Me, I love it - excellent!!
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