At the End of a Perfect Day is a title that is all too apropos, since the music that fills the album is comprised of mellow ballads that are both relaxing and serene. The songs are typical of his soothing style, sung in
de Burgh's suave demeanor making their simplistic makeup sound that much better. Without the narrative allure found in
Spanish Train,
de Burgh uses his haunting voice to enhance these average-sounding pieces, resulting in only a couple of mediocre standouts. The charming "Broken Wings has
de Burgh's lonely voice fluttering amidst lyrics about his lost love. While the words may seem a little honeyed, his sedating air throughout the song's entirety is front and center. On "In a Country Churchyard," the rural-ness of a small European countryside is brought to life with
de Burgh's vivid lyrical description and the delicate, pastoral feel that unravels with the song. Aside from these two offerings, the whole of the album consists of
de Burgh's delightful but typical-sounding songcraft. ~ Mike DeGagne