It's no Undiscovered Soul but...

A review by The Beam

Well, the first Richie record that I bought was Undiscovered Soul. For one of two reasons 1. It was obviously a lot more recent and 2. Richie himself said it was much more radio friendly than Stranger.

And...it is!
Stranger is a very good album, no question, but where Undiscovered Soul is Blues influenced Stranger is really blues rock.I didn't have an immediate liking towards this record like I did with his second offering, but after a time of listening, I have found the lyrics to be a bit stronger and more meaningful ( but a lot darker), which really set the mind in motion for some, well, soul searching I guess!
So when the album is not quite as strong as Undiscovered it is on the whole a deep, heart felt solo offering(except Dave did the keys, Tico the drums and Jon co-writes a song on it!)
If you do intend to buy this record (I would however recommend Undiscovered Soul to be bought first, for first-time Richie listeners) don't judge it on the first few hearings, but give it a bit to grow, as I'm positive it will and you will truly appreciate it, like I do now.

Best Tracks(in no order) : Stranger in this Town, Ballad of Youth, One Light Burning, Father Time, Rosie oh and Church of desire too.

Stay well clear of Rest in Peace and Mr. Bluesman isn't everyones Cuppa but has an AMAZING solo, performed by Mr. Eric Clapton.

Good Stuff

Rating: 8/10

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