Coolhand
Album: Coolhand
Label: Self Released
Tracks: 12
Website: http://www.cool-hand.co.uk

This the debut album from Coolhand - a Cardiff-based band put together by vocalist Darren (Daz) Edwards and guitarist Luke Bradshaw.

After listening to this a few times now all I can say is "Wow!". This really is an amazing first album - the first of many I suspect. The playing and singing throughout is exemplary. Tight arrangements and superb production.

The music is largely bluesy rock and all 12 tracks were written by the guys. The album kicks off with Virtual Life which sets the tone for what's to follow. It's a guitar-driven song about modern life, with powerful vocals and a neat arrangement.

Next up is Summertime Shuffle, which is an organ-infused romp. Dead Man's Hand is the acoustic-led story of Wild Bill Hickok's last night which explodes into a guitar frenzy.

There are excellent backing vocals and overall the production is quite brilliant - under-stated and crisp throughout.

Such A Fool is a sophisticated rhythmic laid-back soulful ballad. Hardly The Time features more keyboards and acoustic guitar and excellent vocals.

Everything starts off with acoustic guitar and organ, and builds into a blues-rock tour-de- force. Once again the singing is of the highest order.

Looking Back features chunky guitar, great vocals and backing singing and is very tight.

Give Love A Chance shows a more subtle side to the band, with the same excellent vocals. Stand Up is a more anthemic romp featuring tasty slide guitar.

Can't Carry On and Pretender Love feature more great playing and singing and the album concludes with J & J - an atmospheric instrumental on slide.

If you like Bon Jovi, and other American bluesy soft rock outfits, then Coolhand will be right up your street. Either way, this a magnificent first album which deserves a wide audience.

John Knighton