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Chris is a member of several bands, most notably the Vikki Clayton Band, and a popular solo performer throughout the world. An American based in England for many years, his music touches both sides of the Atlantic, with West Coast vibes nestling alongside Celtic, jazz, rock and Eastern influences. Earth Rising is a superbly satisfying journey through his eclectic musical world, with a little help from friends such as Vikki Clayton, Clive Bunker, Sally Barker, Jodi Krangle, Roger Wilson, Mike Burnham and Baluji Shrivastav. Earth Rising is BIG music, a modern, timeless classic. *** REVIEWS *** TRADITIONAL MUSIC MAKER Now and again, a CD comes along that just seems to 'fit' into whatever groove you're into at that time. That feeling depends upon a wide range of variables all coinciding at the same point in time, space, mind, or wherever. For this reason, such an experience is very unusual, and the moment must be relished and savoured. This is an exceptional record. The music fits such a range of moods, emotions and settings that it is impossible to categorise - and why should we want to? The overall feel of the music is so positive in its general outlook and perspective on life that so far, I cannot tire of hearing it. Chris Conway has succeeded in creating a record that is inspirational and complete and I would recommend it to any-one who has a taste for quality music. Conway plays a multitude of instruments himself, including guitars, keyboards, tin whistles, zithers and bamboo flute. He is ably backed by a talented array of musicians and vocalists, including Roger Wilson, Vikki Clayton and Clive Bunker. The resultant sound is one which is full and yet is not cluttered or overbearing in any way. Conway, who also produced the record, has managed to concoct a fine balance between making a CD which is eminently listenable and yet challenging enough to be thought-provoking. Conway's material, which is almost all self-penned, shows a diversity and sensitivity which adds to the experience. There are mystical and spiritual influences, alongside songs about nature, and a critique of modern city life. Highlights for me are 'Age of Miracles' - which sets the achievements of the human race against the needs of those who do not share in the fruits of that progress, and 'Before I Go' - which has the line: 'And I don't know if it's worth talking anymore, when we can read each other's minds...' But it is Conway's love songs which are the most touching. 'A Little Bit of Loving' is sung from the heart and benefits from a simple delivery - with vocals by Conway and Jodi Krangle, accompanied only by Conway's piano (Just a smile, would tear down the wall....). 'Love on the Run' is a song which gives some hope to lovers everywhere - 'Let me know that you need me, but don't ever tell me why...' Chris Conway deserves to achieve considerable success with Earth Rising. The problem is, that set against the insipid bulk of current musical outpouring, it is just too good. It will probably fail to be noticed because it does not form part of that mass-produced, and yet utterly marketable mediocrity that all too often passes for musical talent. Let's hope I'm totally wrong. By David Wardle, Q MAGAZINE Reviewed: March 2000 Genre: Folk Release Date: 28-Jun-2000 Already established as something of a boundary-breaking accompanist with the Vikki Clayton Band, Chris Conway's fourth solo album takes inspiration from a wide range of roots sources. Here folk makes friends with African and Indian influences and produces plenty to enjoy, from the kalimba-driven chant of City Breakdown and the dancy jive of Love On The Run to the swaggering, punchy folk of the title track. The backing vocals are a joy(particularly Sally Barker on Before I Go and Vikki Clayton on Love On The Run) and Roger Wilson's violin gives the whole affair a pleasant kick. While some of the ballads are overly preoccupied with a mystic on life's lonely road, for every lyrical thud, there's a musical hit. Reviewed by Rob Beattie CHRIS CONWAY HOMEPAGE 1 of 5 Next - back to band list Price: £11 # 031(CD33) |
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A New Day Records 75 Wren Way Farnborough Hants GU14 8TA |