From Now On [Extra tracks]

Rather than describe the album as 13 versions of the same song with different lyrics, it can be broken down into three main groups. There are the loungey, Andy Williams-style numbers such as "Love Struck", "Over You", the rather lovely "What's In Goodbye" and hit single "Light My Fire" (the Jose Feliciano arrangement, not the Doors one). There are acoustic, rhythm-based songs in a Ronan Keating vein, such as "Side by Side" and the title track, which smacks of Natalie Imbruglia's "Torn" (although less rocking). And of course, there is weak, soggy, cabaret-circuit pop such as first single "Evergreen" and "The Long and Winding Road", which although they are big sellers for Will, definitely aren't his greatest strength.

It's doubtful Robbie Williams has anything to worry about, but at the very least, From Now On will provide light relief after the bingo for many years to come. --David Trueman

A quality cast have been picked, featuring co-writers behind hits such asS Club 7's "Reach", Kylie's "Can't Get You Out Of My Head" and Five's "Keep on Movin". However, this album is not paint-by-numbers pop; the legendary Burt Bacharach has got involved, acting as the perfect accompaniment to Will's vocal talent.

The opening "Evergreen" and "Anything Is Possible" - his debut record-breaking single - bring back those emotional memories of the Pop Idol final and the mad hype that followed. After a couple of cheesy cover singles - his Lennon/McCartney duet "The Long and Winding Road" with Gareth and The Doors' "Light My Fire" Will finally gets to prove himself with tunes of his own backed by orchestras and choirs. Of these, standing out on first listen is "Lovestruck" featuring quirky rhythmic vocals but nevertheless meeting all pop criteria. It's in the same happy-go-lucky vein as the beautiful Bacharach-penned "What's In Goodbye". There's a touch of soulful jazz in "Over You", breathy like Madonna's "Fever" - and it's easy to imagine him crooning by the piano in his flatcap and smoking jacket. Swingin!

"Lover Won't You Stay", a Cathy Dennis/Guy Chambers combo is a grower, "Side By Side" is instantly catchy while "You And I" has a great chorus, funky bass and gospel backing vocals. There are no fillers and thankfully no Westlife-ish ballads. From Now On (bordering on alternative with its guitars) and "Fine Line" might take a couple of listens to win you over but its a fab album that won't disappoint anyone. It'll be a sure-fire Christmas stocking filler for everyone from pop chicks to their Robson & Jerome-loving Grans. --Julie Broadfoot

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