A Century Ends [ORIGINAL RECORDING REISSUED]

David Gray

Product Details

• Audio CD (July 10, 2001)
• Original Release Date: 1993
• Number of Discs: 1
• Format: Original recording reissued
• Label: Caroline
• ASIN: B00005KB4U
• In-Print Editions: MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (19 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #16,053 in Music (See Bestsellers in Music)

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  Music > Indie Music > Folk > Singer Songwriters

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com

David Gray's sudden success, on the heels of White Ladder's much-deserved platinum sales, has suddenly created demand for his older work. Happily, this has resulted in the rerelease of his 1992 debut record, A Century Ends, along with its followup, Flesh, and a new compilation, The EP's 92-94. Despite the impact Century had upon its release, gaining Gray a devoted following that included more than a few influential admirers (after hearing Century, Joan Baez proclaimed him "the best lyricist since Dylan"), the record had gone largely unnoticed until Ladder finally hit the mark. Leading off with the stunning anthem "Shine," Gray indelicately chews on his earnest words with a thick Welsh accent, soaking up every syllable like a sip of fine wine. Throughout, the intensity and schmaltz-free poignancy of Gray's music can be heard in the hard-edged folk of songs like "Birds Without Wings," as a simple acoustic riff drives a growling, soaring vocal through its paces. Like most of his work pre-Ladder, Gray's approach here is sparser, often featuring only voice and guitar, and even more akin to the naked poetry of folk-music soulmates like Van Morrison. There are exceptions, as the up-tempo rocker "Wisdom" could easily fit on White Ladder if its earthy drum sound was leavened with a little more of that record's subtle electronica. Regardless of his arrangements, Gray's music can always be counted on to avoid easy sentimentality while still rending hearts and reaching for universality. --Matthew Cooke

Product Description

U.S. reissue of the 1993 debut album for the British adult alternative sensation who finally got the attention his music deserves with his 1999 album 'White Ladder'. Ten tracks on this CD, including his first single, 'Birds Without Wings'.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

16 of 16 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful, heart-melting music, July 20, 2001

By	Jonathan J. Casey (the twin cities) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

I came across David Gray after his second album, "Flesh" was released, though I would have to say this first record is the one to start with. "Shine," "Gathering Dust," and "Birds Without Wings" are all incredible, slow building, expansive folk songs that speak to a wide audience. Without the proselytizing and awful slick production of some bigger name folkies out there, and a voice that is at once youthful and weary, the sound of this recording matches the songwriting, which is extraordinary. Especially considering this is his first release, David Gray has incredible talent. These songs still hold me in their thrall- not something to just put on, but something to really listen to, and feel. "Wisdom" kicks out the jams a little more, looking forward to the bigger electric sound he favored on "Sell, Sell, Sell." I love this record, and there will always be a big spot in my heart for David Gray.

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Work of Art, December 19, 2001

By	Miss P "Reviews for the People" (Dirty Jerz) - See all my reviews

White Ladder got me hooked. A Century Ends has made me a fan for life.

I've avoided addressing the obvious comparison between David Gray and Van Morrison, but I feel like I have no choice after listening to "A Century Ends". Van Morrison's influence on David Gray is apparant. (You only have to hear "Say Hello, Wave Goodbye" from "White Ladder" to realize that.) But it's the artistic quality and raw soulfulness of the two singer/songwriters that's really inspiring. This album has the mystical brilliance of Van Morrison's classic "Astral Weeks" but with a more modern-day edge to it. While Morrison relied more on complex (and gorgeous) orchestrations for "Astral Weeks," Gray relies more on biting and sometimes witty lyrics. They both have the raw, soulful quality to their voice that can make you cry (if you're so inclined). The comparison between the two is evident on every track, however. From the "..and look, and look.." on "Shine" to the "Nah, nah, nah" chorus on "Gathering Dust," it's as if we're hearing a brilliant sequel to Astral Weeks--thirty years later.

Each song is unique, and to listen to the entire cd from start to finish, is to truly experience the gift that Gray has given us. Some of my favorites are:

Shine: Mystic and hauntingly beautiful. This is a heartbreaking song about love ending, but it's optimistic, rather than of self-indulgent.

Debauchery: The classic Irish pub song done in a fun-loving, roll in the grass, romantic way. You can't help but smile when you hear this.

Gathering Dust: I can't say enough about how gorgeous this song is. From the deceptively simple lyrics ("I got no reason but that I must/ maybe I feel like I've been gathering dust"), to the carefully-orchestrated music, to the pain in Gray's voice with every word he sings, this song is stunning.

Lead Me Upstairs: Another poetic truth set to music ("she brought me to her side/ she asked me for the truth one time and all I did was lied")

Living Room: With a chorus like this ("if life's just a living room/ then I'm in the hall and I'm glad") you really can't go wrong. I think this especially hits home for those who are still trying to find their "thing."

If you want a heavy rocking cd with killer hooks and repetitive lyrics, DO NOT buy this cd. If you want a carefully crafted, outstanding cd of music, in which every one of the songs floats effortlessly into the next, this is definitely for you.

(As a side note, I would urge Van Morrison fans to pick this album up as well. Gray never imitates Van, but rather pays quite a tribute to his influence with every song he sings. It's worth a listen.)

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Work Of Genius, November 23, 2001

By	Thomas J Clifford (Reydon, Southwold, Suffolk, United Kingdom) - See all my reviews

My favourite all-time musician. A true genius. Here's a track by track review of his superb debut album. Buy this. You will NOT be disappointed.

Shine-
Incredible song. One of the most magnificent compositions of recent times. There is a great authenticity about this song. It is raw and emotion soaked. Very uplifting. Soaring. Easily one of his best songs.
A Century Ends-
A standard folk-rock stormer. A protest song of sorts, in the vein of Dylan. Positively defiant.
Debauchery-
This is a very beautiful song. Quite erotic. Nice storytelling lyrics. Life affirming.
Let The Truth Sting-
My least favourite song on the album is many people's favourite. This is Gray at his lyrical best. Another protest song. Image upon beautiful image.
Gathering Dust-
My favourite song ever. Beautiful. The na na na's are incredible. Mind blowing.
Wisdom-
This song gets the adrenaline going. A real rocker. Uplifting.
Lead Me Upstairs-
Beautiful, simplistic song. Nice saxophone.
Living Room-
A nice folk ditty about life and love. Lovely.
Birds Without Wings-
Extremely powerful protest song. This IS the new Dylan. Incredible lyrics and music.
It's All Over-
Defiant finale. Another rocker. Incredible end to an incredible album.