The problem with being one of the most successful and popular recording artists of the past two decades is that critics always seem to expect the unachievable.
With the release of the deeply-reggae flavoured Blue, an album originally intended to be a collection of cover versions, Mick Hucknall has moved into Radio Two territory only months after his achievements have been recognised by his inclusion on the government advisory committee, the Music Industry Forum (MIF).
The current single Say You Love Me (released May 11 and already shooting up the airplay charts) and a new mix of the Sly & Robbie-produced Gregory Isaacs cover Night Nurse (which reached number 14 in September) are stand-out moments.
The rest comes across as somewhat self-indulgent, but points the way to Hucknall becoming more comfortable with his new-found status.
Rating 3
