How the Mighty Fall

It's a shame that Take That member Mark Owen's third (and so far last) album was a commercial failure, falling under the top 75 in the UK - I'm torn between which one of his two strongest solo albums is the best, 'In Your Own Time' (2003) or 'How The Mighty Fall' (2005).Despite it's lack of chart success, it has to be said that the high profile Take That reunion, which ultimately overshadowed this solo release from someone who far from reached the heights of Robbie, or even Gary Barlow, couldn't have helped matters in the slightest.However, little Mark proves once again that he is a great singer who can write good songs, both quirky and emotional. I would probably say that this is more of a rock album that his other two (his top 40 debut 'Green Man' was distinctly Britpop, and 'In Your Own Time' was Pop/Rock), but it's hard to categorise his records for sure, because there is much variety. The only thing that tracks like the off-the-wall 'Waiting for the Girl', and the bouncy single 'Believe in the Boogie' have in common in terms of musical style is the same distinctive, high-pitched voice.All of the tracks on this one are worth repeated listens, 'Sorry Lately' is one of my favourites but the song that really impresses me is the flop single 'Hail Mary', with it's big production, but ultimately a gentle ballad, and one of Mark's all time greatest songs that really should have been a huge hit for the baby-faced man. The one single that was a sizeable hit (briefly dipping into the top 30) was 'Making Out', which was the real feel-good pop song here, and another standout. In a fair world, it should have become an anthem for the summer.If you enjoy Mark Owen as a solo artist, then this album (ultimately his least successful) is something of a real work of art, and well worth the price you may have to pay for what is currently something of a rarity.

I've always liked Mark Owen but felt his voice was not too strong- but sounded great with others members of Take That - (who I think sound really good just with Mark, Howard and Gary! ) . Hence , I was intrigued by his solo work- and credit where it is due How the Mighty Fall is a good album- Mark's voice sounds variable- but he more than proves he can sing a good tune in his own right on many tracks. I wouldn't say I a massive fan of his solo work- but equally if you like Take That, and Mark- I'd say give it a try! Overall, he has also proven has a talent for song writing too- and although I only give three stars- Track 6. 3:15 ids A STAND OUT TRACK- 5/5! Other tracks i particularly like inc 8. Wasting Away , and then 9. and 10. worthy of 3/4 /5. So. well done Mark! If I had produced this album- I would be proud.

Mark Owen is not the world's best singer, but most of us already know that. But who cares because he is a fantastic song writer... this album proves it. It is the happiest album I have heard in a long time. Mark has a real talent. It is a pity this album didn't get more radio play. As a result, Mark's solo career never really took off. But this album is amazing and he definitely should have got some number 1 singles out of it, if only more people had heard the songs.Take That have a new album out. On that album is a song called 'Shine'. Many people love 'Shine' and say it is the best Take That song ever... but knowing Mark's other songs, I am sure this is completely his work. So if you love 'Shine' then you really will love Mark's 'How the Mighty Fall' album.

I thought that "In Your Own Time" was the definitive Mark Owen album. Wrong! Along comes "How the Mighty Fall" and it's as good, or, dare I say, even better. The acoustic versions are amazing, particularly "Makin' Out". I hope that the reunited Take That does not signal the end of Mark's solo work. It would be such a loss.

A must have for any Mark Owen fans. Brilliant album

His other albums are great but this just smells of being studio led rather than artist driven. He's better than this.

Mark is a very gifted songwriter and he has an amazing voice, which sounds even better in acoustic songs. I just can't get enough of him!! "Wasting Away" and "Hail Mary" are my personal favourites.

This was the only album from Mark Owen I didn't own, and as he is about to launch a new one, I HAD to get it! It has great, catchy songs that I don't get tired to listen to, especially "I believe in the Boogie" and "Stand".Another great album from this very under-rated musician.