I HAD never heard of Paul Carrack but I had unknowingly heard the singer/songwriter/multi-skilled musician's contributions with outfits such as Squeeze, Roxy Music, Mike & The Mechanics, The Smiths to name but a few.

Then again, I suppose he's never heard of me. Here we have 14 new tracks written, sung, produced and played by Paul on all instruments - apart from a few string and horn infusions. Chris Difford, former Squeeze bandmate, chips in with three collaborations. This is a superb celebration of a music master who knows what he wants and does it himself. It repays each replay. Each song leaves you wanting more. This is a CD which is a showcase for a craftsman who has really paid his dues.

Updated: 12:16 Thursday, July 24, 2003