9 of 10 people found the following review helpful
4.0 out of 5 stars
A Diverse Palette - One of the Best CD's of 2004, Jan 24 2005
By B. Niedt - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: Our Shadows Will Remain (Audio CD)
Joseph Arthur was "discovered" by Peter Gabriel, who signed him originally on his Real World label, and you can hear some of Gabriel's influence in Arthur's work. I haven't heard the previous albums, but after getting acquiainted with this release, I do intend to seek them out. Arthur is an accomplished artist (in more than one sense of the word - his slightly disturbing primitive-aboriginal style art graces the cover and booklet) with a diverse musical palette, from crunchy alternative-style rock to beautful ballads. "Can't Exist" falls into the former category, a harrowing yet melodic tune about a dysfunctional family member, strung out and on the street, that may hit listeners like me as close to home. "Echo Park" is a simply gorgeous love song, complete with vocal harmony and strings. "Even Tho" is a catchy, even single-worthy, R&B-flavored tune. These are the highlights of a generally satisfying CD that contains smartly-written lyrics and intriguing, ear-catching instrumentation. It made many critics' and listeners' best-of-2004 lists, and rightly so. It is one of the most interesting and enjoyable CD's of the last year.
8 of 9 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
New dimension for underrated singer-songwriter, July 27 2005
By J. Taylor - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: Our Shadows Will Remain (Audio CD)
Joseph Arthur has been quietly gaining a deservedly fine reputation for his emotionally raw, yet very well crafted songs. Breaking away from the RealWorld label, where he released the excellent 'Come to Where I'm From' and 'Redemption's Son' amongst others, he has added a richer more polished layer to his honest lyrics and affecting music.
None of the tracks reached me as immediately as favourites, such as 'In the Sun', 'September Baby' or the beautiful 'Honey and the Moon' but soon enough a few gems appear. 'Echo Park' and 'A Smile that Explodes' are standout tracks in an album that rewards the listener throughout. His vocals focus on the higher register more than past outings, which is refreshing, but this is as characteristic and interesting as ever. Some tracks may be more geared towards an American audience, such as 'Leave Us Alone' but there is plenty to keep the British listener entertained, too.
Appearing on lauded soundtracks such as the OC and Shrek 2, and supporting REM, his unique style and gravely voice have already won him quite a few fans but this new album should see that growth continue. Recommended.
7 of 8 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars
This Is The Album Of 2004!, Jan 9 2005
By jokeypo1963 "jokeypo1963" - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: Our Shadows Will Remain (Audio CD)
There is genius in the year 2004 & beyond. His name is Joseph Arthur.
This guy not only writes & sings great songs, every single tune is great with meaning....
This is a gem. A rare find that is buried within the system that is called music.
Mr. Arthur's voice is a very powerful one. I often wonder how one with such talent can be so underated.
I LOVE this guy. I LOVE his albums. I love Our Shadows Will Remain. I would say that it is his BEST album to date hands down! (however, all of his work is a stroke of genius).
Entertainment Weekly Review:
With his razor-shredded voice and love of murky sonic textures, Joseph Arthur always sounds as if he's groping his way out of the dark. But as heard on Our Shadows Will Remain, an especially forceful and cohesive album, no one fumbles about better.
On beautifully dank songs like Wasted or Can't Exist, Arthur never fails to find his way to the light and, in the process, lay waste to just about every coy male singer songwriter in his path. (by David Browne, Entertainment Weekly 2004 review).
I play Our Shadows Will Remain often & it just gets better & better. If you are looking for some high quality music, then please get the album 0f 2004. You will get your money's worth 10 times over.