No.100 - ‘Aqualung’, by Aqualung (2002)

“Just for a moment I faced my life alone; Just for a moment my luck had finally run out; Oh how I love you…”

A very subdued beginning to this album list. But from hearing “Strange and Beautiful” on a 2002 Volkswagen Beetle advert, I was instantly drawn to Hales’ soft yet edgy voice and beautiful melody. 
 
This album brings together three of a few very important features about music that instantly draw me in: 
 
1. An expressive and captivating voice
2. Strong piano lead or accompaniment 
3. Explorative chord sequences and melodies.
 
And the album certainly doesn't disappoint. It is incredibly stripped back, with some songs just vocal and piano. Generally using minimal drums, bass and guitar with overlapped harmonies. The kind of album to just lie on a rug, and soak in the goodness and beauty. But never have i heard such minimalism to be so powerful. 

Matt Hales (aka. Aqualung) was already writing songs at the age of 4 on his families piano in Southampton. Having played in a couple of bands, including a covers band of ‘The Police’, he became disillusioned and started his solo project. This album, his debut, was recorded fully from his hallway. Strange and Beautiful was a No.7 hit in the UK charts and this album went Gold, peaking at No.15. 

I’m disappointed (as a small collector) that this album has never been released on vinyl, but a compilation of songs from this, and his second album is available as a rare U.S release; one still for me to hunt down.

Favourite songs - Good Times Gonna Come, Strange And Beautiful, Just For A Moment






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