Artist: Chris Rea Album: Dancing With Strangers

Year: 1987
Duration: 0:0-1

Dancing With Strangers by Chris Rea: A Critical Review

Chris Rea is a name that rings a bell among music lovers - his gravelly voice, intricate guitar riffs and raw emotion has been a staple of rock and blues music since the 80s. However, one of his albums has been highly overlooked and underrated even by his fan base: Dancing With Strangers. Released in 1987, this album takes a detour from his usual blues and rock style and injects elements of pop, jazz and funk into its tracks. In this post, we will take a deeper look into this overlooked gem and give it the appreciation it truly deserves.

First things first, let's give a brief history of Chris Rea. Born in the UK, Rea started off as a session musician before releasing his breakthrough album, Shamrock Diaries, in 1985. He went on to release numerous hits, with The Road to Hell being the most recognizable one. His music is known for its bluesy guitar riffs and his gravelly voice that speaks of raw emotions and experiences. It's no surprise he has been compared to Eric Clapton and Mark Knopfler.

Moving onto Dancing With Strangers: this album is a departure from Chris Rea's usual blues and rock genre and has a distinct sound, inspired by funk, jazz and pop music. The album's opening track, Joys of Christmas, sets the tone with its upbeat tempo, jazzy saxophone solos and dancing rhythms. This is easily one of the best tracks on the album.

Next in line is Que Sera, a slower, more contemplative tune. The song takes inspiration from the Latin American style, with its use of a flamenco guitar and percussion. Chris Rea's subdued vocals, along with the twang of the guitar, add a melancholic tone to the song.

The third track on the album, Loving You Again, is a rock ballad that showcases Chris Rea's prowess as a guitarist. The song's soaring choruses and soft verses will easily get stuck in your head.

Another noteworthy track on the album is Just Want to be With You, which has an infectious rhythm that tempts you to dance. It's a pop-flavoured tune that showcases Chris Rea's versatility as a musician. The saxophone solos further add to the groovy vibe of the song.

Finally, let's talk about the innovative parts of this album. Chris Rea's use of different genres, such as funk and jazz, in his music was a departure from his typical blues-rock sound. The album's overall sound is upbeat and refreshing. At the same time, a lot of the lyrics on the album tackle themes of loss, love and heartbreak - an essential part of Chris Rea's music.

In conclusion, Dancing With Strangers by Chris Rea is an oft-overlooked album that deserves one's attention. It showcases the artist's versatility as a musician and his ability to incorporate different genres into his music while staying true to his signature gritty rock sound. The album's standout songs, along with Chris Rea's melancholic lyrics, will surely leave a lasting impression on a listener. It's an album that deserves recognition and a place among Chris Rea's best works.

In conclusion, Dancing With Strangers by Chris Rea is an oft-overlooked album that deserves one's attention. It showcases the artist's versatility as a musician and his ability to incorporate different genres into his music while staying true to his signature gritty rock sound. The album's standout songs, along with Chris Rea's melancholic lyrics, will surely leave a lasting impression on a listener. It's an album that deserves recognition and a place among Chris Rea's best works.