Our take on... Why Me? Why Not.

I’ve been an Oasis fan since I can remember, and when it comes to the Gallagher brothers, I’m definitely Team Liam.

I was excited to hear Liam was releasing a new album, as I loved ‘As You Were’, but I’m just glad he’s still doing what he loves. The album comes after the release of his documentary ‘As It Was’ which follows his journey of rebuilding his ‘rock n roll’ character. He’s obviously gotten a lot of stick over the years, and like anyone, had his moments of struggle, but has overcome it all and made a comeback. Not many people were too interested in his first solo album and saw it as a way of trying to outdo his brother, but it didn’t stop him. You can tell gigging is something he loves to do, so I’m delighted he’s back with some brand-new tracks and touring again. I admire his willingness to not give up, and against all odds, just continue doing what you love, and someday it will pay off.

I know a lot of Oasis fan were not too eager on Liam’s solo material in the beginning, but I have a feeling this album might win a few over. Liam’s voice is so iconic, it’s hard not to get ‘Oasis vibes’, but looking passed that, the music and lyrics are so catchy, you won’t be able to stop yourself singing along after a couple of plays. The album is not very complex lyrics-wise, which might not appeal to everyone, but it’s just simple, catchy tunes. It’s definitely on par with some Oasis albums out there, so it’s hard to imagine Oasis fans not liking it.

First track on the album, “Shockwave” – unbelievable! This was the first single released from the album and although I can’t say I was immediately overwhelmed after hearing it, it wasn’t until I heard it a second time that I knew the album was not going to disappoint…for me anyway. The beginning of the song is intriguing, with the guitar riff leading into the harmonica. Totally made me think of the beginning of ‘Wall of Glass’ from his first album ‘As You Were.’ Lyrically, I can’t help but think it’s another song about Noel, but a super strong opening to the album, and I assure you it does not end there.

I’m really loving the track ‘Once’. A softer track on the album, reminiscing on the past, remembering the good days and the fun he had when he was younger, but evidently in the end, “you only get to do it once.” This song is kind of like a breather in the album; quite deep to be honest but a great and uplifting song all the same. If you’re a fan of Liam or follow him on social media, you’ll know how much of a serious character he is, so it’s nice to see a different side of him and hear him get a little bit more emotional in a sense.

For me, this album is top notch and I wouldn’t expect anything less from LG. I’m not going to say this is the better album over ‘As You Were’ but what I will say is this - I think the best is yet to come from him, and I don’t think he will stop until he has reached his absolute peak and I’m excited to see what comes next. I opted for the vinyl version of this album, which sounds incredible! The vinyl is also available in a really cool bright green colour. This album may even turn some heads of those who were never too fond of Oasis. Liam has merged his way into a more, as much as I hate to say it, ‘pop-ier’ form. I guess it allows for easier listening. I’ve been playing it non-stop in the shop and have had lots of customer asking about it. They’re pleasantly surprised to find out it’s Liam and have all complimented it, some even impulsively bought the album. So, I would urge everyone to give it a listen, even just once… you might be pleasantly surprised!

These are the honest and admirable words of our Eoife Clarke in our Navan branch (inset).

Why Me? Why Not. is available on CD, Deluxe CD and vinyl at goldendiscs.ie and in all Golden Discs stores nationwide.