Windows To The Soul

For more than a decade, Dave Browne led the hugely popular Dublin outfit Picturehouse, who built a considerable live following and almost enjoyed an international breakthrough. Sadly, they imploded a few years back, and this long-awaited solo album, which comes after a long gestation period, is in marked contrast to the upbeat jollity of Picturehouse. From the sombre opening ballad, ‘Everybody Wants Love’, it’s immediately apparent that is this is a much more reflective and contemplative collection of songs – hence, presumably, the album’s title. With muted trumpet, cascading strings and a late-night ambience, ‘Daylight Again’ again typifies the kind of approach adopted here: piano-led, slow-burning balladry with lush orchestration.
But Windows To The Soul is not all about chest-beating. ‘Built To Last’ is eminently radio-friendly, recalling Picturehouse’s more Crowded House-indebted moments. ‘Queen Of Many Things’ is another of the few uptempo numbers and makes for a pleasant contrast. Elsewhere, Browne takes a back seat on ‘Weight On My Shoulders’, which features the gorgeous voice of Ingrid Madsen, an impressive new talent. Madsen turns up again on tracks such as the Coldplay-influenced ‘Dream’ and ‘Look What You’ve Done’ – this time in duet-mode with Browne – with both voices blending beautifully.
Browne has a distinctive, pitch-perfect voice and a certain way with melody that will not be to everyone’s taste. That aside the whole affair is exquisitely produced, recorded and played by some of Dublin’s finest session musicians, and marks a strong start to Browne’s solo career.

Key Track: ‘Built to Last’