The singing Jack Torrance of the Xfactor, Aiden Grimshaw blew us all away with his creepy yet moving performance of 'Mad World' back in 2010. After months of waiting impatiently I finally got to hear Misty Eye the other night.
'Hold On' sets the tone for the album with its Lana Del Rey style production (a la National Anthem), courtesy of Jarrad Rogers; Aiden's raw and authentic vocals drape perfectly over the top. The first word that pops into your head on first listen is "intensity" and this is applicable to the entire album; it's not one for background music. The drama continues with debut single 'Is This Love?' with its drum 'n' bass sound, heart pounding build up and explosive chorus.
'What We Gonna Be?' does surprise but I can't decide if this is a good thing. Aiden sounds great but the rap seems out of place and the track itself doesn't grab as instantly as its predecessors. It's all good though as things get back on course for the rest of the run time.
Roger's suited production continues with title track 'Misty Eye', which has a Moby feel to it. 'Got a misty eye on you/thought all your lies were true', Aiden sings and all the while establishing himself as, perhaps, the UK's most exciting male musical export for years. 'The Island' is my favourite song here, with a chorus so big it could shatter your nuts. Covering Sia Furler's fantastic 'Breathe Me' Aiden quells any fears I had for the cover (I'm a huge Sia fan), respectfully adhering to the original's structure and sound. He keeps up this tone with the lovely Feist sound of 'Poacher's Timing'.
The album closes with two of the strongest tracks 'Nothing At All' and second single 'Curtain Call', both of which are incredible listens. The former is a trip hop, Emeli Sande 'Heaven' sounding exhilarator, while the latter is a haunting anthem, with stunning vocal wobbles bringing all emotions to the fore.
If there was ever an album that was deserving of success, Misty Eye is it.
4.5/5
Check out 'Curtain Call' after the jump.
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