Tom Jones - 24 Hours

The Voice shows how it’s done

Tom Jones has blasted back into town with an LP that stands with the very best in his distinguished back catalogue. After collaborations with Jools Holland and that odd 2002 experiment with Wyclef Jean, the boy has gone back to basics with an album of excellent story songs that hits hard on every level. His voice is in fantastic nick, too: opener I’m Alive (originally by Tommy James & The Shandells) is a fierce affirmation of self. “I’m a man,” he roars. “I don’t care if I’m right or wrong.” It’s scintillating.

The excellent production, by hot drum’n’bass duo Future Cut, blends contemporary sonics with a classic neo-retro feel, framing Jones’ hugely expressive vocals superbly. Of many highlights, the Bono-penned Sugar Daddy is blatantly sexy, while The Road, Seen That Face and the peerless title track are movingly personal recordings. It’s no surprise that Jones himself had a hand in the writing of most of the songs – they’re full of love, memories, future plans, seduction, style and sex in a narrative based round the life of not just Tom Jones but, crucially, Sir Thomas Woodward himself. A magnificently unapologetic, naked, raw and goddamn groovy portrayal of music and manhood. On this form, nobody can touch him.

Parlophone | tbc

Reviewed by Joe Shooman
<< Back to Issue 357