He must be so proud of where he has got in his career, he has got places where in my opinion even he didnt think he would accomplish and also people that knew him, BUT HE DID.So well done and keep making those wonderfull songs we love so much. love Sarah
The first album (LTAL) was his first stab at a solo career, branching out from the shackles and restrainsts of being a 'pop' star in Take That. It contained brilliant Oasis/Bon Jovi/Beatles/Kiss style songs and generated five hit singles. Robbie was here to stay!
The second album (IBEY) was more of the same, although Robbie had established himself as a 'rock' star and was already gaining 'rock star' fees for everything. That contained even better songs and, again, generated five hit singles.
This third album (SWYW) is, again, more of the same, but I got the impression that, although a slight change of direction is apparent, he now believes that because he is so huge and loved by most of the country, he can now palm us off with anything he likes.
"Rock DJ", although humourous, and achieving the No. 1 status in the British 'music' charts, is, well, come on - a bit rubbish!
"Kids" was hardly spectacular, despite the fact that pop princess Kylie M featured on it.
But that said, and aside from throwaways such as "Knutsford City Limits" (which does contain an outstanding Williams vocal) and the rock-and-roll, Rolling Stones-flavoured "Forever Texas", this is a very, very good album. It's the kind of album that you put on and sing-along to, whatever your mood. There are happy songs, sad songs, cheeky songs and depressed songs - in other words, (and I say this very loosely), something for everyone!
"Let Love Be Your Energy", (one of, wait for it, FIVE hit singles) is a brilliant rock opener, with an infectious chorus and pounding drums that make you just wanna jump up and down. "Better Man" is a beautiful, meaningful ballad, which, I think, almost surpasses "Angels" in classic-ness. They are the standout tracks. The rest is just pure Robbie - with the help of Guy Chambers, he darts from genre to genre ("The Road To Mandalay" is very French in style), and sings his heart out to the best of his extremely able ability!
Long may Robbie reign.
However, once you're past the initial sense of disapointment more subtle gems begin to appear. Supreme has just the right mix of sarcasm and hope to touch a nerve. Rock DJ and Kids stick in your mind more resolutely than the first listening might suggest, and the album as a whole improves with repeat play.
Lacks the WOW factor of previous releases, but still delivers the goods.
