Fionn Regan - The End Of History (Album)
Fionn Regan isn't just another singer - songwriter, I wouldn't lump him with the James Blunt or David Grey's. For a start he's a lot more literate in his song writing, and he also hasn't got that glossy production of the two former singers - songwriters I just mentioned.
The production on his album 'The End of History' is fantastic; it puts Regan's voice right up the front of the mix and showcases his simple but effective guitar playing.
The rythym on the song "Hunter's Map" propels the song along with a hypnotic beat. In the press there have been comparisons made between Regan and the seminal Nick Drake, however, I dont know if the comparisions with are justified; because Drake had such a distinctive voice. Nonetheless, Regan has a fine voice, but in comparison to Drake's it doesn't really stand out as anything special.
Contextually, 'The End Of History' is the perfect late night album to help you deal with those erratic Melbourne winter nights. Regan has an appeal to make you pay close attention to his artistry with his lyrically beautiful stories of unrequited love. The closing track "Bunker Or Basement" is the longest on the album clocking in at 10 minutes 52 seconds. Throughout that time Regan's guitar ebbs and flows, keeping you transfixed throughout.
As an album in toto , with repeated listens, it will reveal more and more. Sit down with your bottle of fine red wine and listen to "The End Of History" with an open mind, and I think you'll find one of the unpolished gems of the year.
Fionn Regan has made an album that will go down in the annals of 2006 as one of its finest.
