Blake is the solo project of Julian Pugsley and The Book On Love takes his appeal even further. Possessor of a vocal that is very close to Al Stewart, particularly on a song like Until Tomorrow, where the likeness is uncanny.
That has led to Folk Pop Rock comparisons in the past which, while partially accurate, haven't acknowledged the true scope of his talent. His material is a mix of the Retro and the poppiest of the poppy of the Indy 80s, particularly the best of the Glasgow scene.
This album demonstrates that scope more so than ever. Blue Star and Walking Away demonstrate Blake's excellence with something Folk tinged, but this is a small part of what he does and thus contained here. The latter even breaks out into an ace Psych Pop Guitar Solo.
The real key point to note is how wonderful the arrangements are. They take on unusual directions with unexpected interruptions evoking memories of the past, but also offer a unique take that so many lack. This is the real strength of the album, enhancing great songs to an even greater level.
When the album lets loose, it excels even more. Lost Ground is a superb example. It is almost Anton Barbeau and is prime time Pop Rock. Happy is even a little Lloyd Cole, although far more chipper. Penelope Please is great Jangle Pop and The Circle has a fine Twang as well as probably the best arrangement and instrumentation on show.
My own regret is that I took three months getting round to reviewing this. There seems to have been a lack of great song writing lately. Concentrating too much on the lyrics maybe at the expense of the song? The Book Of Love is ace and another Subjangle Triumph.
You can listen to and buy the album here.
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