After playing “Revive Me” on his slot on BBC Radio Humberside on Sunday 25th January, Never for Nothing’s Geoff Howlett has published his review of “All The People”, which he called “a mighty fine album”, on the NFN e-newsletter – even making it his Album of the Month! Here is his verdict:
GARETH HIDES : All the People. (K180Music : K180CD 001)
Even after nearly 28 years in the CCM business, I’m still amazed by the terrific songs being written and produced by independent artists, like London based Gareth Hides. This is his first, full, album, and what a cracker it is! For those of you old enough to remember a band called The Electrics, the opening ‘Revive Me’ will bring back great memories. It’s a Celtic foot-tapper that is very pleasing to the ear, with an excellent chorus. ‘Faces on the People’ plods along nicely, but the indie pop anthem ‘Tonight’ is a real highlight. “Tonight’ was written to highlight our own mortality as humans, and that ‘we may not have tomorrow”, says Gareth. “It’s based on Luke 12:16-21 where Jesus says that “this very night your life will be demanded of you”. On ‘New Creation’ there’s great use of a simple guitar phrase, while on ‘Stumbling Block’, Gareth makes first-rate use of some violin and mandolin sounds. The invitation of taking the water of life, on ‘Will You Come?’ didn’t sound as joyous as I thought it should, but that shouldn’t take away anything from another, fine set of lyrics. I couldn’t stop smiling when I heard ‘Every Time You Go Away’. It reminds me so much of 1970’s Eurovision! That’s not a bad thing, Honestly! It’s bubble gum pop, with sing-along chorus that will be buzzing around your head for days. Gareth has an engaging voice, and his songs have real lyrical gravity. Add to that, some great production, and you have a mighty, fine release. 9/10.
Thanks Geoff! Check out his mention of the album on the BBC radio Humberside Sunday morning breakfast show HERE. It starts about 37:37 into the show… Enjoy listening!
Gareth Hides 