My Night in with... Tracey Thorn

from www.wordmagazine.co.uk and published in the August 2010 edition of The Word magazine...

What's it called?:

Love and Its Opposite

What It Sounds Like:

The kind of grown-up pop music you wish more people would make. Everything But The Girl were often labelled "sophisti-pop" by critics - sneeringly suggesting coffee table music with little substance - but lead singer Thorn has made a fantastic album which is as unashamedly sophisticated as they come. The arrangements are careful and professional, and the lyrics capture the frustrations and difficulties of being a 40-something woman in the second decade of the 21st Century. Love and its Opposite shows Thorn can write domestic vignettes with astonishing detail and candour and is a wonderful record.

What Does It All "Mean"?:

That it's ok to be afraid of aging, divorce and the worrying speed that your children grow up. It also means Tracey Thorn is becoming a national treasure.

Goes well with...:

A quiet reflective evening when a reassuring voice would be appreciated, as well as any time you feel like being thankful for what you've got.

Might Suit People Who Like...:

Everything But the Girl (obviously), Portishead's more reflective moments, The xx, Joni Mitchell. It should also be required listening for anyone who thinks Lily Allen and Kate Nash are the queens of unabashed, honest lyricism.

My night in with... Glee

from www.wordmagazine.co.uk and published in the May 2010 edition of The Word magazine...

What's it called?:

Glee

What It Sounds Like:

Autotune and teenagers with annoying inflections, unfortunately, but to dismiss it on account of that would be a mistake. Life is hard in the strictly regimented world of American high school where you're either a football player, a cheerleader or a social outcast. Luckily, for those with a desire to perform, there's the Glee club - led by the Panglossian Mr. Schuester - where no-one will judge you. On top of the fantastically choreographed routines, there are fake pregnancies, unwanted weddings, genuine laugh out loud moments and the inimitable cheerleading coach, Sue Sylvester. It has all the hallmarks of a show adored by the kind of people who use the phrase, "OMG!", without a hint of irony, but it doesn't take itself too seriously and, though not exactly demanding television, it's utterly absorbing.

What Does It All "Mean"?:

It means that it's ok to be different. It means that you should embrace your individuality. It means that sometimes there's nothing better than dressing up for a good old song-and-dance. Basically, it's the Lady Gaga of TV shows.

Goes well with...:

A cosy night in on the sofa after a hard day at work. Glass of Chilean Merlot optional.

Might Suit People Who Like...:

American high school dramas, pop music and fun.