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Andrew Ellis Former frontman for Austin based pop-rockers Blue Cartoon, John McElhenney, has been threatening to release a full length solo studio album for some time now. That release, titled 'Are You Feeling Anything Yet', is still in the works, so for now, this collection of acoustic demos, outakes and re-workings, has been released via MP3.com to whet the appetite. Despite the rough and ready recording environment (John's bedroom), 'Diablo Del Soul' is captivating not only because of the chance to hear the songs take shape acoustically., but also because the majority of the songs reveal McElhenney's knack for writing true pop gems. Opener 'My Little World Of Love' shows what the term 'unplugged' REALLY means - if a busker was strumming these original songs outside Grand Central Station, his guitar case would be stuffed full of dollar bills in a matter of minutes - and gives a tantalising glimpse of how the full band version would sound. 'Beautiful, Beautiful' is next up and built around a sunny vibe and great hook, it shows how some of the most effective songs are the simplest, as McElhenney sings "It's a beautiful beautiful beautiful world/I’m the happiest boy and she’s the happiest girl".  However, as Elvis Costello fans know, pop music isn’t always inspired by
happiness, and 'I Want To Know You', a song of real poignancy and pleading
becomes even more stark and effective in the predominantly acoustic environment
of the album. 'The Same Thing' continues the slightly dark theme in McElhenney's
songwriting which reaches its plateau on 'She’s Gone', a truly heartfelt
song with a gorgeous melody that stands out as the best song on this collection.
Other highlights include the memorable 'A Place To Go', and the marvellous
ballad, 'I Was Wrong', as well as the two instrumentals/unfinished
demos that round things off.In truth, 'Diablo Del Soul' is not an album, but more of an eclectic collection of intimate acoustic demos that is raw, honest and above all else, throughly enjoyable. Hopefully, the forthcoming studio album will follow suit. Band Website | Contact Band | Give Us Feedback on Review |
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