Down the Line (Deluxe Edition)

" A Girl Like You " was featured on a recent episode of the new TV Show LUCIFER. Edwyn Collins' song fits right in as Mr. L Morningstar - the devil - fallen angel in charge of hell - has apparently, while residing in LA, developed a love interest, empathy, and doesn't want to return to his job down below. Lucifer and the gal he's falling in love with have been " carrying on " for a while and we might hope he pulls a hat trick of some sort or maybe it will be love that saves him from the almost inevitable return to hell. Flossing in front of the mirror next to the tv screen, startled myself as laughing at Lucifers antic's, mischievous smile, and sparkling / twinkling eyes- saw 'bout the same in the mirror - took a deep breath - ah...it's only a tv show. ( Agnes & Ed hope love saves Lucifer's soul, at least for another season or so )

I just saw the documentary 'Home Again' featuring E. Collins recovery from a sever stroke. His road to recovery is inspiring an amazing artist with a unique touch. This disc is one his best so far covering old and new.

I saw Edwyn Collins on his Gorgeous George tour at the old 'Croc' in Seattle where he told the crowd after someone screamed he was a God that he was more like Buddha. A true pop icon to many it took a little while for me to warm up to his new more laid back sound that came with his first solo album 'Hope and Despair'. That title track starts off this collection and is an anthem to his new solo ways with an organ laden self portrait of sorts and just like Edwyn gazes hopefully to the future. 'Ghost of a Chance' also from that album showcases his ability to write the catchiest of tunes. Then 'Graciously' a country type of growl that warms the soul on a snowy day more than any hot toddy...this is my favorite. The 'Gorgeous George' songs are what the world knows him best for with the 'Empire Records' soundtrack hit 'A Girl like You', of course Edwyn Collins would write the definitive record store movie hit. He has always been a favorite of record store employees in the know. 'Campaign...' being a truly angry or bitter song that fires a mortar at the heart of the record industry in true rockin' 90's fashion. ' Magic Piper of Love' i believe was written for one of the Austin Powers movies but have never been able to find it on a soundtrack...certainly sounds like a retro hipster dance tune that fits the Austin Powers strut. 'Johnny Teardrop' was my ex-girlfriend's fave it really has a similar style to his big hit with his deeper drawl than anything back in the Orange Juice days where Edwyn Collins songwriting influenced everyone from The Smiths to Spacemen3 to Nirvana probably. These are some great songs from one of the best who like most of our rock heroes did it all for the best of reasons...it was either be a rock star or a bird watcher.