Duffy - Rockferry (CD 2008)

The Album immediately kicks off in contemplative style with its title track. Rockferry is an intelligently written ballad that contrasts Duffy’s light-hearted tones with the more intense instrumentation - creating a well-rounded piece of music. ‘Warwick Avenue’ follows in similar vain allowing the singer to take centre stage whilst the music encases the flowing lyrics. The string articulation throughout the record works extremely well with the music, gently peeking through the mix to make enough impact without detracting from the songs.

‘Serious’ moves the album upwards taking a more energetic approach than the previous tracks. The Bass and Guitar weave together to create subtle funky undertones, whilst maintaining the soulful sound that has become synonymous with the record. ‘Syrup and Honey’ is a sweet little ditty (no pun intended) which showcases Duffy’s tender vocals, although she sometimes gets a little raspy towards the outer reaches of her range. This is not necessarily a bad thing - adding a raw and natural feel to the record that is often missing from modern overproduced pop music. ‘Hanging on too Long’ is perhaps Duffy’s best vocal performance, her voice gaining power and conviction to match the intonation of the track.

The album seems to contain acute references to various 60’s acts. The use of the lyric ‘I’ll never be your Stepping Stone’ is an obvious nod to The Monkees' 60’s hit. Whereas the first few bars of ‘Syrup & Honey’ bare a striking resemblance to Janis Joplin’s ‘Down on Me’. Even subtler are the instrumental introductions to ‘Hanging on Too Long’ and ‘Mercy’ that share clear similarities to Marvin Gaye and Ben. E. King hits. Even if unintentional these references both musically and lyrically add depth and heart to the album.

The albums first single ‘Mercy’ is arguably Rockferry's Crown Jewell - a high tempo number that has sixties style stamped all over it. The prominent Hammond Organ line, soulful Dusty Springfield-esque vocals and classically simple chord structure are obvious trademarks of 60’s era pop songs. Once you add the infectious hook line to the mix you have all the ingredients for a great single. The albums only real weak point is ‘Delayed Devotion’; although a pleasant track it really lacks the vocal presence to be anything more. ‘Distant Dreamer’ ends the record on a high taking us full circle and leaving the viewer content and appreciative. Rockferry is indebted to the excellent production, which plays nicely into the singer’s strengths. This allows Duffy to showcase her soulful and emotional style, without being hindered by her lack of vocal strength.

Best Tracks: Warwick Avenue, Mercy

Worst Tracks: Delayed Devotion

The Track Listing's

1. Rockferry 4:14
2. Warwick Avenue 3:47
3. Serious 4:11
4. Sleeping Stone 3:30
5. Syrup & Honey 3:18
6. Hanging on Too Long 3:57
7. Mercy 3:41
8. Delayed Devotion 2:58
9. Scared 3:09
10. Distant Dreamer 5:06