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Bryan Ferry: As Time Goes By

Author unknown

W.H. Smith online, October 1999

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Bryan Ferry is back, and in some style. Not, though, a familiar style, as, for his latest album, As Time Goes By, Ferry steers away from rock and crosses over into classic 30's jazz. It might not seem an obvious choice for the ex-Roxy Music man, but, as it turns out, he slips into the role of gentleman singer with practiced ease. Old favourites, such as Falling In Love Again, The way You Look Tonight, and the title track are rendered with a distinctive modern edge, while losing none of their original feeling.

This collection was enough to convince the BBC to commission a special live performance at Cafe du Paris, which can be seen in December, and the original more than lives up to the challenge of the setting. Long-time collaborater Rhett Davies sets the mood with production that conjures up images of smoky cafes and refined romance, in a time of luxury, lavishness and leisure. There is talented support from a band that would not feel out of place behind any of the great crooners.

As if the music was not enough, the album's artwork is taken from a collection of Ferry's own drawings, which perfectly complement the album's sense of a glimpse at another era.

As Time Goes By takes you from intimate romance, through wistful regret, to swinging celebration, but maintains, throughout, a warm glow of nostalgia that is the perfect antidote to those cold winter nights.

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Text copyright 1999 W.H. Smith Online, used without permission.
With thanks to Grant Goggans.