Roesy

A review of his album 'Only Love Is Real'

This new album from thesinger/songwriter Alan Roe  - a.k.a. Roesy - is everything that fans of the man from Birr, Co. Offaly could expect. His second studio album - and his third release under Blue Cloak Records - 'Only Love is Real' is cleverly written and flows with a savoury fluency.

It has songs of elegant simplicity, cherished playfulness and astute poetry. The carefree 'Trailin The True Star', the sharp stirring 'Neon Lights', the pleasing 'Potosi Mine' and the compassionate 'Palace Of The Heart' are all excellent examples of Roesy's songwriting ability. His vocals are so distinct and adaptable that it gives these songs an extra bit of gusto. On tracks like 'Sober Clown' and 'I'm On For Livin', he sings with an almost golden mellifluous voice. While on 'Only Love Is Real' and the truly excellent 'Hell Bent On You' his voice elevates with a more spirited tone.

While his two previous albums, 'Sketch The Day, Paint The Night' and 'Spirit Store', had that instant hook on first listen, 'Only Love Is Real' needs a few full listens in order to discover the magic within.

Gareth Maher

Check out a CLUAS review of Roesy live in Dublin in 1999.
Check out another review of Roesy live in Whelan's in 2003.