Eli - Second Hand Clothing

Thursday 1st June 2000
Eli - Second Hand Clothing
Eli - Second Hand Clothing

STYLE: Roots/Acoustic
RATING 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8
LABEL: Forefront FFD5240
RRP: £2.50

Reviewed by Mike Rimmer

Eli's debut album Things That Matter introduced us to a singer/songwriter with a flair for observation, poignant thoughts and a strong melody. Building on the strength of that, Eli returns with a thoughtful release which sees him grow in his talents whilst maintaining a sound which is familiar and comfortable. Eli's warm expressive voice is the perfect vehicle for these songs as it seems to immediately connect and pull you into the themes of the songs. Highlights include the title track (in two parts!) with part one an acoustic reflection of his roots and a metaphor for escaping the influences of the past. Part two is a full-on soulful rocking encouragement not to judge by appearances. Eli has a neat turn of phrase and a self-deprecating sense of humour expressed in the hard hitting "The Hypocrites Song". On "Grace Walks By" he cleverly personifies God's grace and forgiveness as a woman dancing, rejected by our bitterness which robs us of all that we could enjoy. An enjoyable album with much to say.


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Sample Track Listing:
1. Stand [Listen]
2. Not Going Back [Listen]
3. Second Hand Clothing Part 1 [Listen]
4. Writings On The Wall [Listen]
5. Unqualified [Listen]
6. Brother [Listen]
7. What's Left Of Me [Listen]
8. I'll Stay Right Here (Moments) [Listen]
9. Grace Walks By [Listen]
10. Hypocrite Song [Listen]
11. Second Hand Clothing Part 2 [Listen]
12. Valleys [Listen]


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