Richard Swift – ‘Beautiful Heart’ (Secretly Canadian) Released 13/11/06

“Is it possible? Have you never heard Richard Swift?” asks the website of said Mr Swift. Well it’s not outside the realms of possibility now is it? And hardly surprising really when he’s producing not unpleasant yet totally forgettable records like ‘Beautiful Heart’. But despite the unimaginative acoustic guitar and droning chorus. don’t write Richard off completely. There’s clearly some interesting production going on here (the bells and electronic chanting in the background are a nice touch) and his overlayed, throaty vocals would make for good listening if only he could break into the wonderful world of melody.