Richard Riley CD Review

Richard Riley is a highly talented guitar player from the UK. Richard has played electric and acoustic guitar on many recordings. Richard is also a talented producer and has just finished producing IT’S THE QUIET ONES for local singer Nicky Johns. On top of all that Richard also sings and writes his own songs. Richard has re-mastered his 2006 album NOT IF BUT WHEN, giving it a more upbeat feel. The album contains ten glorious songs that sound fresh and delightful on the ear. Richard’s songs are interesting lyrically. His vocals are soothing and delicate when they need to be and rousing on louder more upbeat numbers. Richard’s influences include Bread, Neil Young and The Beach Boys. The album begins with Evie, the song starts off quite slow allowing Richard’s amazing vocals to shine through but as the song progresses the mood shifts up a gear. The chorus is anthemic and Richard’s vocals easily echo that feeling. Nothing To Write Home About is a truly outstanding song. The song sees Richard slip effortlessly between singing and speaking. The lyrics are delightful to listen to. I am sure many people will relate to Richard’s words. It is easy to picture this song being used as part of the soundtrack to a television show. Sharpie Tattoo is another song jam packed with wonderful lyrics. Richard’s vocals are intoxicating throughout this charming song. Kissing (Doesn’t Count) starts off quite dramatically. This is a rousing song with heavy backing music. This song is really engrossing and ends far too soon. Nineteen Seventy Three is an outstanding song, which mentions in the lyrics Elvis, John Lennon and Bond movies. Richard’s voice is gentle but goes up a gear when he wants to get his message across. Mr X is a song about winning a talent contest. Richard’s lyrics are cynical but spot on. This is an interesting song, worth a close listen. Not If But When is a catchy song with a quirky melody. This song has a dreamy pop feel about it. Richard’s vocals are refreshing. One of Richard’s influences is The Monkeys, I think that influence spills into this song. If you like upbeat gentle music with strong lyrics then you will love this song. The Wrong Side Of The Road sees Richard in reflective mode. Richard asks through his lyrics if he would like himself as he is now, twenty years a go. Again here the lyrics are worth a really close listen. Richard’s vocals are charismatic. We Can Ride is another of the heavier songs on the album. This song offers listeners a big dash of folk/rock in the style of Rock Salt and Nails. This is another anthemic song packed full of energy and power. And The Stars (Are Looking Back) is the final offering on the album. This is a slower song with some stunning guitar work and lush vocals all provided by Richard. There are hints of James Taylor here in this lovely song.