Following up 1992's brilliant
Difficult Loves would not be an easy task, however
Weddings, Parties, Anything (W.P.A.) managed to deliver a wonderfully tuneful CD, with the usual high-quality lyrics. Musically, the album does not deviate too much from the sound of
Difficult Loves, but principal writer
Michael Thomas still manages to keep the whole package interesting. Long time friend/supporter, and one time boss,
Billy Bragg duets on the brilliant "Island of Humour," and his unique voice fits right in with W.P.A.'s folk/rock/country/pop sounds. Perhaps the biggest difference with this release is the cynicism of songs such as "Money Cuts You Out." One knows
Michael Thomas is singing from experience, which makes it somewhat more difficult to listen to. It is accompanied by one of the most instantly accessible tunes Thomas has ever written. If anything, humour seems to be lacking on this release, until the last track, "Stalactites," which almost seems to be an add on once the band realized just how depressing the album appears. This also marks the first occasion when all members collaborated on the writing of a W.P.A. song. And it works well, as it is a very interesting, and entertaining song. The CD actually holds together very well, and as usual it is well-played and well-produced. Another great release, and another CD to be enjoyed by both long time fans, and new converts.