Ian McNabb

From page 92 of Classic Rock Magazine July 2004



Cover of July 2004 issue.
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‘Potency – The Best Of Ian McNabb’

(Fairfield) After denting the Top 20 with The Icicle Works (a fine band who, despite subsequent improvement, rapidly faced a glass ceiling of complacency and diminishing commercial returns), McNabb the solo artist saw his ‘Head Like A Rock’ nominated for the Mercury Prize. Yet today he’s forced to release his excellent records on his own label. This terrific best-of proves how ludicrous this situation is. Deep in texture and rich in melody, it gathers McNabb’s best tunes and displays his songwriting in a glowing and positive light. Whether it’s the Beach Boys harmonies and punching riffs of ‘If Love Was Like Guitars’ and ‘Livin’ Proof (Miracles Can Happen)’, the ballsier ‘You Must Be Prepared To Dream’ (recorded with Crazy Horse), the gentler tempo of ‘Camaraderie’ or the joyous frippery of ‘German Soldier’s Helmet Circa 1943’, it’s all wonderful stuff.

Alas there’s no room for the rousing ‘Fire Inside Your Soul’, but what talent there is on show here. If you’ve ever wondered why critics constantly rave about Ian McNabb, do yourself a favour: buy this and find out.

★★★★ ★

Jerry Ewing

Black Oak Arkansas
Andrew Oldham Orchestra






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