One of the most brilliant albums ever recorded. Could not recommend this album more highly.
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From an absurdly under-rated artist - Jackie Leven creates yet more song-writing splendour in this early solo work of his. From the rock/punk of his tragically forlorn 80s band 'Doll by Doll', Jackie Leven has pursued an equally majestic, yet reticent solo career. The 'Mystery Of Love Is Greater Than The Mystery Of Death' is the beginning of this. This work contains more 'pop' kind of music than is synonymous with other Jackie Leven albums, with the some spiralling saxophone solos and zany keyboard frolics. It nonetheless retains the poetic lyricism of Jackie Leven's persona, always reciting a story behind his songs and not just filling musical gaps with nonsense. For example there is the exuberant 'Clay Jug' (including Mike Scott from 'The Waterboys'), which starts the album, and later the embittered 'Crazy Song' and 'The Garden'. The highlights include the epic 'Snow in Central Park', the alluring 'Gylen Gylen' and the thorough 'Call Mother A Lonely Field'. The inspiring guitar-work on the mainly instrumental 'The Bars of Dundee' tells a story in itself, without Jackie having to utter a word. This is not to mention the reflective 'Heartsick Land' as one of many standout songs. The album is a wonder to listen to, but is just the start of Jackie's charming portfolio of albums. The only reason i have not given it 5/5 is because in the grand scheme of things, other Jackie albums such as 'Fairytales For Hardmen', 'Nightlilies' and 'Forbidden Songs Of The Dying West' are all in all, more complete albums - the work of genius. As much as I urge you to buy these albums, don't overlook this one.Read full review
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