Comments for Clapton, Richard, Dark Spaces

A moody inner-city feel pervades this excellent singer/songwriter album: Clapton has been compared to Jackson Browne and Billy Joel but, to me, he seems closer to such guitarist/singers as Gerry Rafferty. Some progressive elements emerge in the deft timing changes within these conventionally short songs, and there is great use of diverse instrumentation, such as saxophone and the wailing viola on "Metropolis" (this last track reminds me of the Australian films "The Killing of Angel Street" and "Heat Wave" for some reason, though the title is probably from Fritz Lang''s film). The (then) late, great Andy Durant (of Stars) contributes to the hook-laden guitar band feel, but keyboards are also featured prominently. The title track is a tribute to Silvia Plath and crystallises the generally claustrophobic feel, with its odd sythesiser sounds. Clapton''s lyrics are as socially aware, relevant and left-wing as ever, well supported by some fine music. One of Australia''s great artists. (Ian C. Thomas)

One of Australia`s finest singer-songwriters ever.