Album review: IAN McCULLOCH – Holy Ghosts

Edsel Records (Released 22nd April)

Ian McCulloch releases a sumptious new double album. The first CD is a live album recorded at the Union Chapel in London last year and the second disc is a new album, ‘Pro Patria Mori’, both of which are produced by Youth (Primal Scream/The Verve).

The first disc is a real treat for fans as the set list includes his solo songs (including some of the new album) and a few Echo & the Bunnymen classics. ‘Bring On The Dancing Horses’ and ‘The Killing Moon’ sound so different with the orchestral backing and Ian McCulloch’s voice is on fine form. His new solo songs fit effortlessly into set and mix with the older songs like ‘Candleland’. This live recording will delight his fans I am sure as the songs get a different musical spin on them.

Turning to the new album, Ian McCulloch continues his orchestral theme. Again his vocals mix well into the grandiose production, even the title track manages to avert itself from being twee as it features a children’s choir on the chorus. ‘Me And David Bowie’ and ‘Raindrop In The Sun’ are the nearest to an Echo & the Bunnyman sound.

A real treat for fans and an interesting take on his classic songs in a live setting, plus there is a new album to enjoy and a real return to form for him.

****

Jason Ritchie

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