Side 1

1. "Yes" (Full version) (4:53)

2. "What's The Excuse This Time?" (2:45)

3. "The Right Thing" (6:07)

4. "Although" (5:40)

5. "Don't Call It Soul" (3:05)

6. "Disappointment/Interval" (9:06)

Side 2

1. "The Debitor" (5:07)

2. "How About You?" (4:07)

3. "Tonight" (4:42)

4. "You'll Lose A Good Thing" (3:59)

5. "You Do" (Full Length) (7:26)

"The Sound Of McAlmont & Butler," released in 1995, is a collaboration between David McAlmont, known for his soulful, powerful voice, and Bernard Butler, former guitarist of Suede, renowned for his distinctive and emotive guitar playing. The album is a brilliant fusion of Britpop and soul, combining lush, orchestral arrangements with heartfelt lyrics and exceptional vocal performances.

Track Highlights

"Yes"

Opening with an exuberant orchestral flourish, "Yes" is a triumphant anthem of empowerment and resilience. McAlmont’s soaring vocals paired with Butler’s dynamic guitar work create an unforgettable, uplifting experience. The infectious chorus and rich production make it a standout track that captures the essence of the duo’s collaboration.

"You Do"

This track showcases a more introspective side of the duo. The soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics, delivered with McAlmont’s emotive vocal style, are complemented by Butler’s subtle yet effective guitar work. The song builds to a powerful crescendo, demonstrating the duo’s ability to convey deep emotion.

"What's the Excuse This Time?"

Featuring a catchy, upbeat tempo and an infectious melody, "What's the Excuse This Time?" blends pop sensibilities with soulful depth. McAlmont’s vocal range is on full display, while Butler’s guitar adds a layer of complexity and richness to the arrangement.

"The Right Thing"

A slower, more reflective track, "The Right Thing" is characterized by its lush string arrangements and poignant lyrics. The song’s introspective nature is highlighted by McAlmont’s nuanced vocal performance and Butler’s delicate guitar work, creating a deeply moving listening experience.

"Although"

With its dramatic, almost cinematic quality, "Although" stands out for its intricate arrangement and powerful delivery. The song’s sweeping orchestration and McAlmont’s impassioned vocals convey a sense of grandeur and intensity, making it one of the album’s most memorable moments.

"Disappointment"

Closing the album, "Disappointment" is a soulful ballad that highlights the duo’s chemistry. The song’s melancholic lyrics and gentle melody are beautifully rendered through McAlmont’s expressive voice and Butler’s understated guitar accompaniment, providing a poignant and reflective end to the album.

Overall Impressions

"The Sound Of McAlmont & Butler" is a remarkable debut that captures the unique talents of its two creators. The album’s production is lush and sophisticated, with orchestral arrangements that add depth and richness to each track. The combination of McAlmont’s powerful, soulful vocals and Butler’s emotive guitar playing creates a compelling and dynamic sound.

Thematically, the album explores a range of emotions, from empowerment and triumph to introspection and melancholy. The lyrics are thoughtful and poignant, delivered with a sincerity that resonates deeply with the listener.

Final Thoughts

"The Sound Of McAlmont & Butler" is a standout album that showcases the extraordinary talents of David McAlmont and Bernard Butler. It is a perfect blend of Britpop and soul, with each track offering a unique and emotionally rich listening experience. The album’s timeless quality and the undeniable chemistry between McAlmont and Butler make it a must-listen for fans of both genres.

For those who appreciate powerful vocals, intricate guitar work, and lush, orchestral arrangements, "The Sound Of McAlmont & Butler" delivers on all fronts. It is an album that not only stands the test of time but also continues to inspire and move listeners with its depth and beauty.