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Another slice of melancholy from Badly Drawn Boy, a piece of swooning piano led pop that has probably caused several TV executives or film directors heads to explode with excitement at the prospect of getting ‘Promises’ to soundtrack the closing scenes of whatever angsty drama they’ve got on tap. Yet that Richard Curtis syndrome shouldn’t detract from Gough’s talent as a songwriter, nor his voice which seems to revel in delivering these tales of heartbreak and tearful romance. However, there’s something missing from ‘Promises’ that means it is firmly entrenched in middle of the road material, the sort of track that you suspect Gough can knock out while asleep.
Agreeable enough, this is simply missing that kick to make it truly memorable, instead settling for only being nice. There’s a boost when the bass creeps in and provides a surprisingly funky enhancement but it can’t escape the average-ness that encompasses it. ’Promises’ may be made for TV but those wanting a bolder and more widescreen experience will be disappointed.
Released 18/06/07 on EMI Records
