Artist: Chris Rea Album: Auberge

Year: 1991
Duration: 0:0-1

Chris Rea's Auberge - A Critical Review of the Album

Chris Rea has been a prominent figure in the music industry for over four decades, renowned for his husky vocals, evocative lyrics, and soulful blues-rock sound. His 1991 album, Auberge, marked a significant turning point in his career, earning him critical acclaim and a legion of new fans. In this blog post, we'll take a deep dive into this album, exploring its genre, standout tracks, and innovative elements, while also offering a critical perspective on its strengths and weaknesses.

Auberge falls squarely into the blues-rock genre, which has been a mainstay of Rea's career from the outset. However, on this album, he infuses his signature sound with some new influences, incorporating elements of jazz, folk, and pop to create a more diverse sonic palette. The result is an album that feels both familiar and fresh, offering a continuation of Rea's classic sound while also pushing it in new directions.

One of the best tracks on Auberge is undoubtedly the title track, which kicks off the album with a moody, atmospheric groove that sets the tone for what's to come. Rea's gritty vocals are in fine form here, conveying a sense of world-weariness and longing that's at once poignant and powerful. Other standout tracks include Gone Fishing, a jaunty, uptempo number that showcases Rea's playful side and Heaven, a haunting ballad that's sure to give you goosebumps.

While Auberge succeeds on many levels, there are some areas where it falls short. Some of the tracks feel a bit repetitive or formulaic, with the same basic riff or melody repeating throughout. Additionally, some of the lyrics can come across as a bit clichéd or overly simplistic, lacking the emotional depth and complexity that Rea is known for. However, these flaws are relatively minor compared to the overall strength of the album.

One of the most innovative aspects of Auberge is the way that it blends different sounds and styles into a cohesive whole. For example, on the track Winter Song, Rea incorporates elements of folk music, using acoustic guitar and strings to create a warm, rustic vibe. Meanwhile, on New Times Square, he adds in some jazzy saxophone solos, giving the song a lively, upbeat feel. It's this willingness to experiment and take risks that makes Auberge such a compelling listen.

Overall, Chris Rea's Auberge is an album that deserves to be remembered as a high point in his illustrious career. While it may not be perfect, it's a bold and ambitious work that showcases his considerable talents while also pushing his sound in new and unexpected directions. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to his music, Auberge is an album that's worth your time and attention.