Album Review: VERSECHORUSVERSE 'Outro'

For the last seven years and counting, ex-ASIWYFA wizard Tony Wright has revelled in a newfound role: rock 'n' roll renaissance man. He's dabbled in folk, blues and big-top rock; flirted with acting; written a soon-to-be-published book; and embraced the arts in its many forms.

After the feelgood collaboration with Dean Stevens that yielded The Tragedy Of Dr Hannigan, this busy bee now moves onto another flower with the ominously titled Outro.

The third album under the VerseChorusVerse nom de studio, the musician describes the record as "the soundtrack to an as-yet-unmade movie": it's certainly his most cinematic and dramatic LP to date.

Wright is thriving as a singer, it must be said, and reaps big rewards for taking vocal risks throughout (particularly on the gruff and gritty 'Cry For Help'). He's also developed a taste for rockabilly ('Shakedown Sally') and power ballads too ('No One As Lonely,' 'Last Day On Earth').

Both styles are welcome additions to his already impressive range.

OUT NOW / EDWIN McFEE / Rating: 7/10