David Gray - A Century Ends

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Music reviews of A Century Ends

Music Review: A Work of Art
Rating: 5 Stars

I've avoided addressing the obvious comparison between David Gray and Van Morrison, but I feel like I have no choice after listening to "A Century Ends". Van Morrison's influence on David Gray is apparant. (You only have to hear "Say Hello, Wave Goodbye" from "White Ladder" to realize that.) But it's the artistic quality and raw soulfulness of the two singer/songwriters that's really inspiring. This album has the mystical brilliance of Van Morrison's classic "Astral Weeks" but with a more modern-day edge to it. While Morrison relied more on complex (and gorgeous) orchestrations for "Astral Weeks," Gray relies more on biting and sometimes witty lyrics. They both have the raw, soulful quality to their voice that can make you cry (if you're so inclined). The comparison between the two is evident on every track, however. From the "..and look, and look.." on "Shine" to the "Nah, nah, nah" chorus on "Gathering Dust," it's as if we're hearing a brilliant sequel to Astral Weeks--thirty years later.

Each song is unique, and to listen to the entire cd from start to finish, is to truly experience the gift that Gray has given us. Some of my favorites are:

Shine: Mystic and hauntingly beautiful. This is a heartbreaking song about love ending, but it's optimistic, rather than of self-indulgent.

Debauchery: The classic Irish pub song done in a fun-loving, roll in the grass, romantic way. You can't help but smile when you hear this.

Gathering Dust: I can't say enough about how gorgeous this song is. From the deceptively simple lyrics ("I got no reason but that I must/ maybe I feel like I've been gathering dust"), to the carefully-orchestrated music, to the pain in Gray's voice with every word he sings, this song is stunning.

Lead Me Upstairs: Another poetic truth set to music ("she brought me to her side/ she asked me for the truth one time and all I did was lied")

Living Room: With a chorus like this ("if life's just a living room/ then I'm in the hall and I'm glad") you really can't go wrong. I think this especially hits home for those who are still trying to find their "thing."

If you want a heavy rocking cd with killer hooks and repetitive lyrics, DO NOT buy this cd. If you want a carefully crafted, outstanding cd of music, in which every one of the songs floats effortlessly into the next, this is definitely for you.

(As a side note, I would urge Van Morrison fans to pick this album up as well. Gray never imitates Van, but rather pays quite a tribute to his influence with every song he sings. It's worth a listen.)

Description of A Century Ends

Alternative Rock CDs

• Music > Styles
• Folk
• World Music
• Pop
• Rock