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I disagree with the above review; this album is not comparable to the twee pop records around currently, it is much better than that. There is still the wit and lyricism, the slightly vaudevillian sound that is to be expected from a Duke Special record. However, there does seem to be something missing and I think this is because the sound of the album is far different from much of 'Songs From the Deep Forest', it's not as homely and welcoming. The sound is more stripped down (at least compared to SFtDF - there's still a lot going on!) and sounds sparser in the arrangments, which I find strange as I had the privelege of seeing the band with orchestra backing recently and the songs sounded brilliant with the full complement of strings.
The result is a record that doesn't have quite the same impact as the first, with the songs seeming a little more detached, more like a collection of songs than a cohesive album. Having said that, there is still much to enjoy on the album, such as the beautiful 'Why Does Anybody Love' or the upbeat first single 'Sweet Sweet Kisses' (which sounds a little like 'Portrait'). Quite a few of the songs are piano ballads, much like the album opener, and some of the others remind me a little of Van Morrison. By the Duke's high standards the album may seem a little disappointing, but it's still enjoyable and I think it's an album that will grow with more listens. 3.5 stars.

Rating: 4 out of 5

I loved Songs from the Deep Forest - I make no bones about that. So, I was, of course, hugely eager to hear what was next from the Duke - hopefully more of the tunes from his prior EPs dressed up properly and given the production the songs deserve.

Instead, we end up with this, and I'm absolutely gutted. The only parallel that I can make is the difference between 'Five Leaves Left' and 'Bryter Later'. In other words, the Duke's gone pop, and in doing so has lost a whole bunch of the character and charm that was what made 'Songs' so beautiful.

What was whimsical and charming is now overplayed into twee, and all of the songs seems to have a relentless, pounding drum beat to them, except for the first track, 'Mockingbird Wish Me Luck' which seems to value songwriting above radio-friendliness. And is, to a large extent, the reason why I've given this three stars. Unfortunately, the rest of the album seems to have turned into a sugar-coated caricature of Duke Special as we knew him.

Rating: 3 out of 5

This may not fight it out for album of the year in the mainstream press, but for those few who give it the chance it deserves it is a grower from start to finish. While not as immediate as his earlier work, this album delivers favourably compared to the Duke's mesmeric live performances. The previous reviewer who wanted more reworked songs from old EPs hang your head in shame. This is progression and it is what any true fan would wish to hear.

Rating: 5 out of 5

Here we have the eagerly awaited follow-up to the infectious 'Songs From The Deep Forest'. Once again, Duke and his merry lot do not disappoint. The opening track 'Mockingbird, Wish Me Luck' is beautiful and dark, whilst the second track, and first single 'Sweet,Sweet Kisses' is uplifting and fun. There seems to be a lot more fun had on this album and most songs will have the listener bouncing along with the infectious melodies that are part and parcel of the Duke Special show. Standout tracks for me are 'Those Proverbs We Made In The Winter Must End', 'I Never Thought This Day Would Come' and 'By The Skin of My Teeth'. I buy alot of music and sometimes you come across an album that you are just glad you bought (given the amount of duds out there today). For me, in 2008, this is the album! Buy it, you won't be disappointed.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Love it..every home should have one! This album takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions and is definitely a real grower. I did enjoy it first time through but now it is rarely off the cd player. If you are looking for something fresh and different this is it. Duke is indeed special.

Rating: 5 out of 5