MY VIEW
Music: 'One Plus One is One' by Badly Drawn Boy

By Jessica Labrador
Special to The Advertiser

The Verdict: Four. A step above mediocrity. THE RATINGS 5 — Outstanding: Add it to your collection now. A must-have. 4 — Great: Buy it or rent it — definitely listen to it. 3 — Good: Worth listening to despite some flaws. 2 — Fair: Unless you're a fan of the group or singer, don't bother. 1 — Poor: Save your money (and your ears).

Release: July 27, 2004.

Style: Rock and pop.

Rewind: Track No. 14. "Holy Grail."

Skip it: Track No. 12. "Summertime in the Wintertime."

My view: The singer/songwriter/ multi-instrumental mastermind behind Badly Drawn Boy, Damon Gough, shells out a third full-length release filled with songs that illustrate his folk-pop songwriting sensibilities.

Amidst Gough's acoustic, and sometimes electric, guitar are a variety of instruments played both by Gough and by what he calls "Personnel." A mere fraction of contributing instruments includes the piano, flute, accordion, violin, and even a children's choir in the cut "Year of the Rat."

The overall atmosphere of "One Plus One is One" is soothing, maintained by Gough's voice and graceful guitar work layered upon orchestral melodies such as in "This Is That New Song."

"Four Leaf Clover" begins with a catchy drum beat, which leads to the intrigue of a heavier theme. However, the song manages to retain the dreamy orchestral sound even with the absence of a violin.

But Boy doesn't limit each song to complete benignity. Backed by a full band, "Summertime in the Wintertime" earns the title of being the loudest on the album with its more aggressive demeanor.

"Holy Grail" is bound to be enjoyed by many. Here is where the children's choir really shines and complements its accompanying elements. The song progresses from slow and hopeful into upbeat fulfillment, making it the most diverse track on the album.

LABRADOR

Jessica Labrador is a senior at Waialua High School.

Have a video game or CD you want to review? Reach Island Life deputy editor Dave Dondoneau at ddondoneau@honoluluadvertiser.com.