Danny D’arcy is a Galwegian singer/songwriter/musician with a past that includes three local bands, five years playing in Majorcan bars, and a stint in the English midlands.

His debut album, self-produced in his mate’s loft, steers a mainstream melodic rock course reminiscent of the likes of Deacon Blue, but with nary a hint that D’arcy has heard much to influence him over the intervening years.

‘The Only Way’ has a touch of the Jim Steinman about it, but on a tighter budget. That it namechecks Steely Dan’s ‘Katy Lied’ as “a fantabulous song” only serves to underscore how D'arcy’s work is over-shadowed by the past. ‘Cool Water’ strays towards David Gray territory, with a hint of Bono in the vocal style. ‘Never Ending Wait’ shows him in more sprightly form, with brass stabs used to maximum effect above the rattling good percussion support.

All in all, this is a promising debut, but next time let’s hope that D’arcy comes up with a sound and a stylistic approach that allow his songs to connect more firmly with the present.