Gravity

I hardly ever write a review on here, but after seeing a few for the single release of Safe, and reading some of the negative comments being made, I thought it is time for genuine fans and those who have liked some of their material before to take a stand. It is difficult not to be negative in return to those who are quick to dismiss them, but it happens because there are an awful lot of people out there, who will simply take great albums like this one for face-value, and yet be quick to pass harsh judgement. I have seen one for this album or ready, without any sound reasoning other than to just hate.

That said (and out of the way), your initial impression of this album is what a difference a year makes in the music industry indeed - I mean, we saw a subtle change in direction for the lads last year, but their ever-maturing sound (for those in doubt) is well and truly upon us. We have gone from the mellow, catchiness and intense balladry of Where We Are to something rather joyous, upbeat and most importantly something still relatively fresh!! It is Pop at its very best and still very relevant, even in this ever-evolving music business.

I thought Where We Are was their greatest album yet, but true to their word, this album is by far their very best!! Just amazing - the vibe is fresh (contrary to the same old criticism of the lads every year), there is a little bit of everything on there, and as always a few cracking favourites that you will have upon first listening. Fans (neutrals, haters and the like), make no mistake about it, 12 years on...these lads are in the form of their lives - their recent performances of Safe simply proves this. What you have here are great vocals, and just straightforward Pop at its best. My only one wish is that the media and music lovers in general were not so quick to paint Westlife with the same brush year in, year out. Sure enough some of their earlier albums were of a set formula, but give their last two albums a chance, and you'll be spoilt for choice...Shadows, The Difference, Safe, I Will Reach You, I Get Weak...they all have a great vibe and feeling to them.

For me, the critics get lazy every year, but these lads certainly don't. They're a band being reborn for me, so relax, forget any negative presumptions you may have of the band and allow yourself to be entertained. It is ultimately a collection of easy-to-listen-to songs, whatever mood you may be in. Is that not also a good sign of great music too? Buy it for sure, if not least for some the re-energizers as 'I Will Reach You' and 'Beautiful Tonight'.

Great Album, each song is world class. Every Westlife Fan will enjoy it. And those who aren't fans yet, listen to it! Safe, I will reach you, Before it`s too late, these are songs Westlife Fans have waited for.

This is a strange review for me. For some reason I have a guilty pleasure around westlife. I was sad to see Bryan (Brian) leave as I like his vocals and some of his introductions of song writing. By the way Brian has produced some great solo albums since Irish Son worth checking out.

Anyway, I digress. This album is a change for Westlife, though subtle. First it includes some songs actually co written by them, as well as no covers (I think). Also we get to hear Nicky and Kian as well, which is a great pleasure, as though they don't have the strongest voices, they have a tone that is good and vulnerable, which really adds character. But most importantly is the production and co writing by John Shanks (who worked on Take That's last albums).

The sound is full and lush and gives a presence that is very enjoyable. This is almost the Take That album that we were all waiting for (ie minus Robbie and not sounding like Rudebox).

Uptempo and ballads are included here and worth a few listens. If you are missing the 4 piece Take That, definately give this a try, and for Westlife fans this is a positive step to independance. Let's hear some more songs from the band. They always sound better when they have written them. I know many will say they haven't written any, but check out their older albums and B sides and they did write songs. Sadly Simon and Louie tend to want to bury them now.

Good stuff worth a listen all - give these hard working guys a break?