Indie God Ian Brown returns with album ‘My Way’, his sixth album to date. It definitely brings him back with the big boys.

 

TRACK BY TRACK:

 

Stellify – The album’s debut single has a simple backing single and a great melody with clever lyrics. Almost reminiscent of songs like F.E.A.R that cemented Brown into Indie folklore, this is a cracker.

 

Crowning of the Poor – Brown seems to use a more standard singing voice in this song, which has a great electronic backing track. It breaks down into synth instrumentals in places and is a really impressive track. It seems almost autobiographical, with the repeated line ‘I’m the son of a poor boy’.

 

Just Like You – This song opens with a funky beat and breathy vocals. There’s an interesting touch of xylophone, and then back to the great funk music. This is a track to get ready or drive to.

 

In the Year 2525 – A Spanish theme with castanets and some trumpet - a real toe tapper. Brown really does this cover justice.

 

Always Remember Me – Poignant, with sad lyrics and a haunting backing track. It almost seems like a goodbye from the singer to someone, but who?

 

Vanity Kills – Using piano for its basis, the guitar builds up around it. A woman’s vocal also adds to the feel of the song, which is yet another impressive album track.

 

For The Glory – Brown’s vocals have been stylized on this track and leave an echo in the mind. This is one of his rare love songs and he does it well. Is there anything this man can’t do!? The line ‘I did it for the roses’ is a nice nod to his former band, the Stone Roses.

 

Marathon Man – An almost hip hop feel to it, complete with a great back beat. The chorus is almost like a male La Roux, and this song is set to be popular.

 

Own Brain – This sounds like it could make a great club tune if sped up a bit, and has yet more clever lyrics. Another great electronic backing track makes this song a favourite. He even points out that Own Brain is an anagram of his own name. Classic.

 

Laugh Now – Again this song has Brown singing in a much more pop music way, with some great synth between vocals. It’s also got a great vocal breakdown part and a good ending.

 

By All Means Necessary – This song is bitter about someone who has wronged Brown, to their obvious cost . The lyrics are impassioned and the music has a great beat to maintain a fast pace.

 

So High – This has almost a Daniel Merriweather feel about it, and has full singing from Brown with full effort. This is a great song that closes the album perfectly.

 

VERDICT – This is a brilliant album from an Indie icon - definitely recommended. Brown couldn’t have done any better. 5/5.

Katherine Alder