Leisure
Blur's debut album, this CD features none of the quirky songwriting and social observation of British life that would earn singer Damon Albarn rave reviews, comparing him to the Kinks' Ray Davies and the Who's Pete Townshend. However, as a debutLeisurehas plenty of spunk and appealing naiveté. This is a very Manchester-inspired affair, motivated by the dance-hall shuffle and lysergic shimmering of the Happy Mondays. Lyrics exist merely as something to hang the pretty harmonies on. First-rate pop hooks drive songs such as "She's So High" and "There's No Other Way," while waves of wah-wah guitar and solid organ represent the trippier aspects of the band's sound for "I Know" and "Bad Day," among others.--Rob O'Connor