Originally released in November 1971, singer-songwriter Colin Blunstone's "One Year" was The Zombies lead vocalist's solo debut; Blunstone's Zombies band mates Rod Argent and Chris White co-produced the album. Now comes the outstanding 50th Anniversary Edition of the classic LP that immerses the listener in the artist's enthralling mix of neo-classical, rock, jazz and Baroque pop.
In addition to the original album track listing, the reissue includes 14 previously unreleased recordings and nine unrecorded compositions. One of rock's greatest singers, Blunstone's soaring and mesmerizing vocals shine across the collection.
The reissue is a joy with the uptempo "She Loves The Way They Love Her," classical music-mining "Misty Roses" and "Smokey Day," jazz-tinged Baroque rock classic "Caroline Goodbye," and buoyant "Mary Won't You Warm My Bed" all early delights on the disc. The gorgeous "Her Song", soaring "Say You Don't Mind," flamenco guitar-adorned "I've Always Had You," touching "I'm Coming Home" and dark "Sing Your Own Song" (the latter a song written in response to Blunstone reading about his own death in Rolling Stone) are among the late-title highlights.
The physical release — available on audio CD and vinyl — includes never-before-seen photos and new liner notes penned by Blunstone. This is one of the best reissues of 2021.
Information: ColinBlunstone.net.
Robert Kinsler
