VINTAGE VIOLENCE

Ex Velvet Underground man John Cale released this debut in 1970 and generally the album is a mellow mix fo great songs with catchy melodies. " Hello there" such a clever opener with excellent piano and beatles like vocals. Very upbeat and positive not unlike some psychedlic Caravan elements." Gideon's Bible" a great follow on which smacks of a musician well ahead of his times. " Adelaide" a nostalgic kick back ot younger times. He seems to have an affinity with the Southern Hemisphere, reference Paris 1919. Great harmonica too. It is wrong to compare his music to other artists but this album reminds this reviewer of Al Stewart. It has that optimistic bouyancy about it. The highlight of the album is the beautiful " Big White Cloud", lovely bass and just seems to march on forever, the days of a 1000 summers perhaps.

The albums continues to remain convincing " Please" being another great tune. There is something addictive about Cale's voice, whilst not the best around it has it's very own unique style. " Amsterdam" could be referring to Nico, I am not sure but is great nevertheless. There seems divided opinions on Cales debut. It is strongly recommended, richly rewarding musically and strongly indicative of this man's great talents. It is clear Velvet Underground would never have outlived him.Or put it another way, he squeezed the best out of them and moved on. Four stars!