Roland Gift - 'It's Only Money'
"She drives me creh zeh". I don't think anyone could forget Gift's vocal performance on 'She Drives Me Crazy' - one of the biggest UK pop hits in the 1980s. Last seen singing the theme tune to Channel Five soap Family Affairs, 'It's Only Money' is a track that one cannot categorise. Call it Bacharach pop. A track that is more traditional that contemporary in its popular outlook. It has some solemn violins combined with an epic feel reminiscent of Coolio's 'Gangsta's Paradise'. Still, Gift has always been an artist who, like a Gabrielle, Seal or Des'ree, has moved comfortably between pop, folk, dance and soul. A key it seems to remaining popular in the UK for a black artist. A superb return. In pure soap opera fashion, Roland Gift - former singer of '80s hispters the Fine Young Cannibals suddenly re-appears, as if back from the dead, with a brand new story line. After 12 years off the scene, he's back with debut eponymous solo album. Gift has a remarkably unique and distinctive voice, one which many of today's artists would kill for. Perhaps he's been keeping a low profile for that exact reason. In any case , the coast is finally clear to re-introduce the world to his particular talent. Looking For a Friend is the perfect showcase song, with Gift's modern croon winding sweetly through an upbeat, acoustic guitar-led affair. And on the bouncy "Wish You Were Here", he reaches notes reserved for high-balled choristers. Lets hope he keeps hitting all the right notes, but for even longer this time.