Search - Roger Chapman :: Mail Order Magic

For the Faithful Chapman Fans

loce_the_wizard | Lilburn, GA USA | 01/24/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"It's hard to keep reviews of obscure 22-year-old recordings in context. In some ways, this CD has not aged as well as others in Roger Chapman's extensive solo discography, yet one has to recall the dreadful state of corporate-run FM radio back then (and now). This recording is one of the better ones from Chappo's collaborations with guitarist Geoff Whitehorn. Standouts include Unknown Soldier (Can't Get To Heaven), Mail Order Magic, Making The Same Mistake, Barman, Higher Ground, and Ground Floor. Poli Palmer, another Family alum, co-wrote Barman, Higher Ground, and Ground Floor, and John Wetton kicks in some nice bass chops on a couple of tracks. Whitehorn delivers consistent, solid lead guitar, showing some flashes of brilliance (but ultimately making me miss Charlie Whitney's lead all the more).Chappo is the main attraction, of course, and he delivers the goods, really shining on the title cut, Unknown Soldier, and He Said, She Said.I doubt that this CD won Chappo many new fans outside of Germany, but it certainly is essential listening for his core faithful. In case you need the track list, here you are:
Unknown Soldier (Can't Get To Heaven) 3:44 He Was She Was 4:48 Barman 5:24 Right To Go 4:05 Ducking Down 3:53 Making The Same Mistake 4:58 Another Little Hurt 3:53 Mail Order Magic 4:26 Higher Ground 4:15 Ground Floor 1:56"