Search - Fairground Attraction :: Ay Fond Kiss

A pleasant footnote to "First of a Million Kisses"

03/25/1999

(3 out of 5 stars)

"While the album as a whole lacks the originality and whimsy of "First of a Million Kisses" (over half of the new album's tracks are covers), listening to the band's interpretations of such classics as The Beatles' "Do You Want to Know a Secret" and Sam Cooke's "You Send Me" is still a treat. Eddi Reader and the gang have such a unique style that they can turn virtually any song into their own. The follow-up album rarely deviate's from the original's celtic, jazzy feel and acoustic sound, although a few tracks (such as the topical "Trying Times")seem to at times weigh the album down. Mark E. Nevin still gets three original tracks into the mix, including the delicate and memorable title track, and they are as gentle and welcome as any original recordings would be from this band. The album is mostly composed of European B-Sides, and the live version of "Allelujah" is strictly for fans, (although the track does settle any arguments that Miss Reader's exquisite voice is merely a product of studio engineering). If you have never heard of Fairground Attraction, and are looking for an eclectic, vibrant sound (that includes a stand-up bass and a mandolin!), purchase "First of a Million Kisses". Once you have worn that CD down to a transparent nub, and you find yourself desperate to hear more, go ahead and buy "Aye Fond Kiss". You won't be completely satisfied, but it will delay for a few months the start of your letter writing campaign to the band, begging them to make a new album with new music as quickly as possible!"