Nigel Connell: Nothing Left To Say Review

Nigel ConnellThis isn’t the type of stuff I would normally listen to. Nigel Connell’s album could be classed as classical almost Theatre – esque, big voice, big arrangements.

Connell is no stranger to the music business and has an impressive CV of supports and accolades with acts such as the legendary Tammy Wynette and Johnny Cash amongst others and currently a touring musician with Mummy’s favourite, Daniel O’Donnell.

This is no D. O’D though, title track ‘Nothing Left to Say’, has an opening atmospheric arrangement of one and a half minutes of pure bliss that could easily be heard on a Ministry of Sound chillout album and quite reminds me of the Evanescence production on ‘Bring Me to Life’.

The production and arrangement on the album by Navan Man Mark Cahill are spot on, and always sure that Nigel’s voice is still the centre of attention.

Connell is clever enough know that he’s looking at a slightly more mature audience. The inclusion of covers of ‘Carrickfergus’ and Colin Raye’s country classic ‘Love Me’ not only do them justice but give them a new lease of life. His version of Colm Wilkinson’s ‘Bring Him Home’ could easily give the man himself a run for his money.

The lead single from the album “Belief’ is probably a more mainstream radio track and in style nods at Train and Shaun Mullins.

When I first heard the album, I wasn’t quite sure if this would be my cuppa but I gave it a few listens and each time I heard something different. After three days of listening at different times, I’ve been converted. Actually, I think I’ve been more than converted, this is amazing.

www.nigelconnell.com

This was written for MusicReviewUnsigned