Losing Sleep is the first album recorded (second released) since former Orange Juice frontguy Edwyn Collins suffered two cerebral hemorrhages, followed by surgery and an ongoing rehabilitation. To say that Collins’ formidable physical powers –facility on guitar and keys, his resonant baritone – have been diminished by his illness is no slam, simply fact. But that doesn’t mean Losing Sleep is weak – far from it, actually. Collins may not be able to play anymore (at least for now), but he can still write songs with the best of ‘em. Co-authoring and performing with his friends and disciples in the Scottish pop scene, Collins knocks out gem after pop rock gem in a manner that would seem casual if you didn’t know his recent history. His trademark wit is intact on “Over the Hill” (with Little Barrie‘s Barrie Codogan), “What is My Role?” (featuring the Cribs‘ Ryan Jarman) and “Bored” (no assistance required). He goes contemplative, even existential on “It Dawns On Me” (with the Magic Numbers‘ Romeo Stodart), “All My Days” (with Aztec Camera‘s Roddy Frame) and the stark “Searching For the Truth.” He unabashedly celebrates enduring love in “In Your Eyes” (featuring the Drums) and grabs life by the huevos with “Do It Again” (accompanied by Franz Ferdinand) and “Come Tomorrow, Come Today” (with Johnny Marr). Throughout Collins sounds confident and assured – he may need some assistance, but he’s not helpless. Produced with a minimum of fuss and practically overflowing with hooks, Losing Sleep is less about staging a comeback and more about turning the page to the next chapter.
http://www.edwyncollins.com
http://www.downtownrecords.com
