Everybodys Records

Reviews:

ALL IN THE DOWNS is the new album from the enigmatic WILLIAM TOPLEY. Born and bred in England and nurtured on a diet of blues and rock and roll, William has been building a seriously dedicated fan base in the UK and the US ever since the release of his first album with former band The Blessing in 1991.

Now continuing to plough a unique solo furrow, All In The Downs is the latest musical uvre to spring from the inspirational pen of this extraordinary British talent. Produced by Nick Davis (Genesis, XTC) and written and recorded live in the heart of England, the album takes you on a journey far from the weald of Kent, transporting the listener on a mystery tour through Jamaica, the Bahamas and finally back to the Garden of England via Heathrow.

Inspired by many influences and covering themes familiar to William's many fans, the record opens with the powerful challenge "Are You One Of Us," and carries the listener through musical vistas inspired by the Bahamas ("Lotus Eater") Paris ("Sooner or Later"), and Palm Beach & LA ("Quicksand").

This is an album that stands out from the ordinary, presenting intelligent lyrics and giving a new spin to the universal themes of love and loss. In a world of identikit artists Topley has a truly unique voice, both literally and metaphorically. This record is one of those rare gems that will stand up to repeated listenings and offer something new each time.