ngraydid - Herbal Tease

Published Saturday 1st August 2009
ngraydid - Herbal Tease
ngraydid - Herbal Tease

STYLE: MOR / Soft Pop
RATING 4 4 4 4
OUR PRODUCT CODE: 81512-15581
LABEL: Independent
FORMAT: CD Album
ITEMS: 1

Reviewed by Paul Kerslake

This is the third album release from ngraydid, otherwise known as Wiltshire-based singer/songwriter/poet John Wright. Similar to his previous efforts, this is a lyrically challenging and complex release, as befits John's other talent as a poet/writer. John has an obvious flair for creative lyrics, and all of these songs are pretty wordy, tackling themes such as mortality ("Fragile"), loss ("Comforted") and hope ("Glimmer"). Musically the problems start. This set ventures into '70s folk rock, solidly guitar-based with a slight hint of prog rock. Many of the songs had epic introductions, taking their time to actually get to the point. And the wordiness, coupled with John's not very appealing voice, makes for a less than easy listen. There are some good ideas here and some genuinely clever lyrics. But it still doesn't quite make it.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.

Reader Comments

Posted by Al Swinners in Wiltshire @ 20:21 on Oct 13 2009

I have listened to the "Herbal Tease" Album. I beg to differ, John's voice is uplifting with status and punch.(I can hear a crackling noise though. Is this my system?)
John is singing from the heart and I sense this.
Fragile is brilliant
Herbal Tease.... enchanting
With a sooth synth + BAND added, he would blossom because sometimes his guitar sounds thin and a high pitched voice over a thin guitar is not good.
Its a very good album and I think you have not focussed on the good aspects of this album.
Yes, he is very creative ....with a massive band behind him, his voice would shine through
Alan



Posted by Mick in Wiltshire @ 18:51 on Aug 15 2009

"all of these songs are pretty wordy" ?? - there are two instrumentals



The opinions expressed in the Reader Comments are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms.

Add your comment

We welcome your opinions but libellous and abusive comments are not allowed.












We are committed to protecting your privacy. By clicking 'Send comment' you consent to Cross Rhythms storing and processing your personal data. For more information about how we care for your data please see our privacy policy.

NAVIGATION
CONNECT WITH CROSS RHYTHMS
SIGNUP

Connect with Cross Rhythms by signing up to our email mailing list

A Step Change...
Cross Rhythms Media Training Centre
MORE ARTICLES
DISCOGRAPHY
ARTIST PROFILES
Artists & DJs A-Z
# A B C D E F G H I J K L M
N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z #
Or keyword search

 

PRAYER ROOMS
Courts of Praise
Get close to God, be extravagant in declaring your love for Him in our Prayer Room