Paul Weller
Catch a Flame (Live at Alexandra Palace)
Yep Roc Records- 2006 (release date July 25th/06)
Christopher Duda
(SugarBuzz Toronto)
SugarBuzz Magazine
Paul Weller is one of the most underrated songwriters of the last 30 years and this release on Yep Roc is one to back up that statement.
Weller should go down as one of the most talented musicians this planet has ever seen. However, in the grand scheme of events, importance has not been placed on his vision. In reality, Paul Weller’s name should be uttered in the same breath as other great songwriters for his Jam output alone!
For the most part my knowledge of Weller’s catalogue is with The Jam. My dealings with The Style Council and his solo output are haphazard at best. However, this release ties in all aspects of his career for the beginner to the experienced Weller listener.
This is the first electric live release by Paul Weller made available to North America.
Weller’s latest was recorded live at Alexandra Palace in London on December 5th, 2005. My eyes have now been opened to the tales that Weller has continued to spin post Jam. The live setting perhaps gives Weller’s songs the edge that a produced cd could polish out. Long considered to be the “Modfather” Weller is no mountebank; ”Catch a Flame’ is full of soul, intelligence and charisma.
Weller’s sold out concert in support of his solo release “As Is Now” provides the listener with a cross section of his career. Serving up The Jam- “That’s Entertainment”, “In the Crowd” and “A Town Called Malice” as well as Style Councils- “Shout to the Top” and “Long Hot Summer” and topped off with Weller’s long illustrious career of solid solo output.
Due to be released on July 25th, 2006 you will have to act fast to obtain your deluxe limited edition hand numbered copy (1,000 copies-comes with five collector buttons).
Now only if the Jam would reunite!
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bottom photo by lawrence watson