Album Review: John Newman – Revolve (2015)

COOKIE FM RATING – 3.5/5

As you may remember, when John Newman released Come And Get It, I was enthralled by it and it was made a Song Of The Week in August. So when he released his newest album Revolve (2015) in October, I listened to it via Tidal for about two weeks, but then I bought the album on iTunes, because I just had to have it – and it’s still on repeat! The sound of this record is old school yet modern, and heartfelt but still fun. And then there’s the vocals, instrumentation and general production of the album, all of which are extremely on point. John’s vocals are even better than they are on his debut, Tribute (2013), and the throwback vibes are a favourite. Brass, percussion and Motown-like influences are very evident, and his outstanding collaboration track, Tiring Game (feat. Charlie Wilson), is exactly what one expects of a duet with the legend that is Uncle Charlie. Also, the opening monologue by British actor Idris Elba is also pretty class. It has to be said that The Past is my favourite track on the album. I’m a sucker for the ballads!