Ed James specialises in making feelgood pop and 'In The 21st Century' is his fourth long player infused with the finest examples of his pure pop confection. He combines his light and airy vocals with nice crunchy guitar sounds and tight precise arrangements as in opening track 'Out Of This Town'.'She's The One' demonstrates Ed's ability to nail perfect lush vocal harmonies and proves that he's up there with the powerpop greats such as The Raspberries. 'Disposable' is a mid-paced number which manages to remind you of mid to late period XTC, which is no bad thing either as they were also purveyors of finely crafted pop when they were in that mood or mode. 'You're Always Right' has a heavy guitar led backing that once again is overlaid with crystal clear harmony vocals.
Ed has tempered his pop sensibilities with the addition of a thumping and prominent drum beat on most cuts which prevents the songs being overly lightweight. The album rattles along at a fair pace and the bouncy, upbeat tunes contained within are the perfect antidote to some of the more serious and downbeat music that some of the biggest bands around today seem to think that we need to hear. Pop is not a dirty word, it is the sound of pure enjoyment, that Friday feeling and when the going gets tough, a great pop album can lift the spirits no end. Ed James makes great pop albums and this is one of them; don't be afraid to have a good time and use 'In The 21st Century' as the soundtrack to your good time........you know it makes sense!
Reviewed by Kevin Wallbank 04/27/09
1 Out Of This Town 2 She's The One 3 Girl Gone Bad 4 Miss Polly 5 And Then She Smiles 6 Disposable 7 Second 8 Layna 9 WIFM 10 Star Trek Girl 11 Will You Marry Me? 12 You're Always Right (And I'm Never Wrong) 13 Lullaby
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