.co.uk Siobhan Donaghy probably imagined she'd get some decent mileage out of being an ex-Sugababe -- little did she know that her sort would soon become about as commonplace as the tears of an X-Factor reject clown. And after an underperforming debut album (Revolution In Me), she might seem about as likely to succeed. But that would indeed be a cruel and ill-fitting fate to befall such a dreamy-toned red-haired delight. Her muted elegance was always the foil to the sultry sass manufactured at the Sugababes' core, and on her second solo album Siobhan Donaghy allows that quality to mature yet further, finding a taste of the accomplishment that perhaps evaded her previously. Adopting a pitch somewhere between the sumptuous nonchalance of her former band and All Saints, and the full-bodied grown-up pop of Texas or, at her best, The Sundays Ghosts finds strength in its own comforts. Its range is narrow but assured, never punching above its weight, firmly hitting its targets. And though steady and mid-paced it enjoys a perky production standard giving it a tight modern sheen that holds its head above the water. The hypnotising single 'Don't Give It Up' and sun-kissed cloud-skipping ethereality of 'Sometimes' exemplify this best. --James Berry Review Having arguably spent the best part of her career slipping under the radar, you'd be forgiven for expressing surprise at the return of Siobhan Donaghy. Yet, not only is she back, she's evidently spent that time away developing herself and her sound, and is ready to let the world know - once and for all - exactly what she's got.Ghosts has a far stronger identity than debut Revolution In Me, which, although a highly adept piece of work, was simultaneously a confused hotchpotch of indie-lite uncertainty. Donaghy functions far more effectively in the more streamlined, tranquil bubble she's fashioned herself here.In spite of 'Don't Give It Up' beginning life as an enjoyably baleful creep-a-long before melting into a sticky sub-Kate Bush puddle of a chorus, the remainder of Ghosts exhibits a craftsmanship and an elegance to turn heads, win admirers and give Donaghy the spotlight she's long deserved. Take, for instance, 'Coming Up For Air', a spectacle of sharpness within a honeyed setting, or 'Goldfish', a trippy hymn with a captivating refrain, both of which lay testament to an expansive talent and a fascinating album.Throughout, Donaghy displays the matchless air of enigma she's maintained since 'Overload'. That's not to say Ghosts is in any way shrouded or emotionless - rather, it's astutely controlled to keep that ambiguity at just the right level, and notably, not in a manner that feels contrived or fabricated. Ghosts feels like a very natural display of Donaghy's coyness.That is, until you reach '12 Bar Acid Blues', which all but obliterates any assumptions you might hold about the album or about the woman herself. A cordial, comedic and uber-literal tale of catching mini cabs, booking holidays online, and allusions to diarrhoea (no, really). And while it may not be in keeping with the rest of the material, it's a side to Donaghy and a buoyant sound that both deserve to be investigated further.Liquid-like, mature, sophisticated pop, with just the right balance of dreamy fantasy and terse grit, Ghosts is a veritable work of art. Perhaps she left a then-failing band prior to their global success. Perhaps her first solo album underachieved massively. But now is the time for Siobhan Donaghy to shine, and if Ghosts can't help her do just that, we're all doomed. --Al Fox Find more music at the BBC This link will take you off in a new window
J**B
One of my albums of the year
I love this album. I bought it 'blind' as I sometimes do when I have the feeling I will really like something - it could be what I've heard about the artiste or just a 6th sense. It was the latter on this occasion, and what a great 6th sense it turned out to be!After listening to this album, it's obvious that Siobhan could have been the ace up the Sugababes' sleeve if only she'd had the chance. If the 'babes had released an album like this instead of the dreary 'One Touch' (methinks too much boring R&B from the Mutya / Keisha side) then Sugababes would have become a really credible group from the beginning. This album is hauntingly beautiful - forget the comparisons with Kate Bush, this girl is not only in a league of her own but has created her own, new league!Along with "Little Mix: DNA", "Little Mix: Salute", "Marc Almond: A Virgin's Tale" and "Alexandra Burke: Overcome", this is the only album on which I genuinely love every single track - on which there is not one dud or 'filler'. Siobhan puts her all into every track and reveals a sweet, lilting voice which wavers between a touch of irony and a pang of regret depending on the song.I don't want to bore you by listing favourites, suffice to say if you wnat something a little different, a little special, then this is the album for you. It's one of the few albums I can say I will treasure. Gurgling synths, some almost Middle Eastern bets, and some excellent lyrics (e.g. about standing in a short queue for a lot of trouble) all add up to a brilliant package. It proves that Siobhan was the best singer in the Sugababes and that her (at that point) untapped creative powers could have done the Sugababes no end of good.I hope she leaves MKS (I don't think the original Sugababes line-up reunion was a good idea) and goes back to making excellent, inspired albums like this.
A**S
A wonderful and intriguing second album
Once part of the popular Sugababes, Siobhan Donaghy has now released two albums and "Ghosts" is the sophomore one. As the imagery suggests on the sleeve of the CD, this album is much darker and more experimental than her debut "Revolution In Me". It is also more mature and distinctive, which makes it that much better."Don't Give Up" reminds me a little of Kate Bush in the arrangements and vocals and is a great pop song. "So You Say" is an 80's influenced pop track with rock elements and a memorable melody. "There's A Place" is a very beautiful ballad with an atmospheric quality. "Sometimes" has very experimental arrangements and vocals which makes the song interesting and original. "12 Bar Acid Blues" is a very sweet and well crafted pop rock song with an addictive chorus. "Make It Right" and "Coming Up For Air" are good decent pop tracks but less inspiring although the latter has a great bridge section. But the most exciting tracks are all towards the end of the album. "Goldfish" has a powerful and captivating chorus and beautiful airy angelic vocals. "Medevac" is a fantastic dance influenced pop track with an infectious bass and chorus. "Halycon Days" is an effective trip-hop influenced song and sounds uncannily like Massive Attack's "Teardrop". But the most exciting song is "Ghosts" as it has a world music feel to it and a wonderful powerful chorus.Siobhan Donaghy has outdone herself on this second album "Ghosts" and has certainly surpassed my expectations as this collection of songs is very creative and unique. It is so refreshing to find a new artist who is willing to push the boundaries of music and this is what Siobhan does best here.
D**3
A great talent
This album is a hidden gem. From her early days with the Sugababes Siobahn Donaghy has totally unique style. I heard one track Ghosts on MTV by chance and loved it so much I had to hear more so I took a chance buying this CD. What can I say but its wonderful and I wish Siobahn would be recognised as the great songstress and innovator she is. If you like Kate Bush, Annie Lennox and Tori Amos you will love this.
A**R
Great item with quick delivery.
Quick delivery and item as described.
E**F
Five Stars
alles bestens
D**D
Five Stars
A jewel!!!
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