Following from the trio's splendid debut, (IDHAS Review here), Don Powell's Occasional Flames prove that that album was no flash in the pan. The emphasis here is more Pop Rock and a little less Glam Rock and that allows the songwriting to breathe.
You find yourself listening less for tell tale Glam Rock pastiche and listening to the lyrics more and what lyrics they are. They are so like comments and banter that men of a certain age adopt between their gaggle of friends.
Not really Nostalgic, more now than then, more Bad Back than Bad Company, all beautifully written with a self depreciating wit and great one liners. The fun and jokiness is less up front than on the debut album, allowing wry smiles and nods.
There is also a less tribute feel. Coz We Luv You is a warm tribute to Slade (Powell was the drummer so that's allowed and Bernie And Elton are exceptions and the latter is more about writing twosomes. Elsewhere, the songs stand up wonderfully in their own right.
Dreams Die Hard is a bluesy moody affair, If (Is The Middle Word In Life) has a gentle jangle to it and How Did We End Up Here? contains an ace string arrangement enhancing the melancholy. The key word here is still fun and irreverence with Midlife Crisis being the best example.
Don Powell may be the initial draw, but this is a trio that is the sum of its parts. Paul Cookson is a fine poet, aiding the lyrics and Les Glover's wit is a continuation of his joyful work with Henry Priestman. Glover is also a much underrated musician. I Won't Be Playing Wonderwall Tonight is still their best song and largely sums up what they are about.
You can listen to and buy the album here. You can find out more about the trio here.
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