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Posted by: Jay ☆ 3rd August 2018, 10:37 PM

Claire Richards from Steps is launching a solo career! She's signed with Sony, and her debut single 'On My Own' is out on Monday 6th August. It's described as "an old school power ballad". Her debut album 'My Wildest Dreams' is scheduled for 2nd November.

"I don’t feel this is going to take anything away from Steps, it’s very much an entity in itself. No single one of us is ever going to be bigger than Steps as a whole, I don’t think. Everybody’s been aware from the very start that this was my plan for the gap during albums. It’s actually been very good this time because there hasn’t been the shock. I don’t feel like there’s anything that can damage that now, we’re in such a good place. We’ve been through our ups and downs and our difficulties but I don’t think that’s there any more. And we’re all old enough and ugly enough to realise now that the only way to make it work is to be honest and be up front about everything."

More here: https://www.thesun.co.uk/tvandshowbiz/6937265/steps-claire-richards-solo-album/

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th August 2018, 12:14 AM

Glad she had told the others this was her plan as it may have split steps again. I look forward to hearing this and I hope she can do ok with it. I like the album cover.

Posted by: PAJ88 4th August 2018, 01:07 AM

This is now my most hyped album of 2018. Love her voice.

Not that it matters but I hope the album has more than 10 tracks, just love her voice that much!

Posted by: slowdown73 4th August 2018, 09:31 AM

I like her voice but can’t really see her doing well sadly. I remember H & Claire - the album didn’t do great at all & that was when they were at the height of their popularity!

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th August 2018, 10:53 AM

I think this will do better than the h and claire album as tgat was handled badly plus there was a bit of a backlash.

Posted by: Tawdry Hepburn 4th August 2018, 11:00 AM

I can see this doing way better than the H & Claire album, especially if it's more MOR and catered to the Radio 2 audience. Probably a top 10 album in early November I would say.

Posted by: pippa 4th August 2018, 12:02 PM

I too, can see the album going Top 10.
Great time for Steps fans, nothing for years, then a wonderful Steps album, plus extras and now a solo Claire album.

Posted by: lewistgreen 4th August 2018, 03:41 PM

Looking forward to this!

Posted by: Hans 4th August 2018, 05:10 PM

Now we just need a DJ to pick up "Electric" by Lisa Scott-Lee and 2018-ify it into a future number 1 hit, right?

Posted by: ___∆___ 5th August 2018, 03:18 AM

Interesting she got a deal with Sony yet Steps struggled to get any major interest from big labels when they returned - maybe the success of Steps made Sony think she could be a good investment.

I could see her album doing reasonably well - she’s not shy of doing any and all promo and all the daytime TV shows etc., will welcome her on with open arms.

Posted by: ___∆___ 5th August 2018, 03:18 AM

This! Superstar DJ to do a ‘B List at Capital’ remix please!

Posted by: PAJ88 5th August 2018, 09:02 PM

Pre order up on iTunes.

Standard has 12 songs, Deluxe has 15.

Also looks like we’ll be getting three sings before release as they’ve got times next to them.

Posted by: PAJ88 6th August 2018, 10:22 AM

On My Own is very enjoyable on first listen.

Think it’ll be a grower too. Will buy when it’s on iTunes.

Posted by: Spiceboy 6th August 2018, 12:33 PM

If she goes top 10 I will be very surprised tbh. When you think of the likes of Nicola Roberts, Kimberly Walsh, Shazney Lewis, solo Spice's not achieving top 10's I can't see Claire managing it...

I wish her all the best though and I will likely go and buy it if the first single is any good. I'd love a Faye Tozer album though

Posted by: ___∆___ 6th August 2018, 01:37 PM

I think this will go Top 10 if she can get Sony to get behind physicals and bundles as that’s what the Steps fans have shown they want. With a standard CD/Vinyl release she might struggle.

I think she’ll get a ton of promo opportunities though - she’s very daytime TV friendly.

Posted by: Spiceboy 6th August 2018, 06:44 PM

I really hope she does, and if she does Melanie C's team could do with watching as she still has that physical fan base. Fingers crossed for Claire.

Posted by: Jay ☆ 6th August 2018, 07:15 PM

There’s a standard CD, deluxe CD (personalised by Claire) and a box set (that includes a candle! :’) )

Posted by: ___∆___ 6th August 2018, 07:43 PM

^^ Not the best then, the maximum will be 3 sales per fan (That’s if the box set doesn’t already include all formats so will count as 1 sale?).

Acts like Claire etc., need to follow what Steps and Kylie done with their most recent releases to encourage 4-5 sales per fan.

Posted by: Shandy Leer 6th August 2018, 09:27 PM

who in the name of CHRIST asked for this now.

Posted by: Shandy Leer 6th August 2018, 09:27 PM

way to strike while the irons stone cold hun

Posted by: ___∆___ 6th August 2018, 10:00 PM

It’s probably as good a time as any? She’s releasing on the back of a gold selling album with Steps and 2 sell out tours.

Posted by: Spiceboy 6th August 2018, 10:58 PM

Yeah I don't see any better time to release?

Posted by: Shandy Leer 6th August 2018, 11:07 PM

17 years ago

Posted by: ___∆___ 7th August 2018, 12:02 AM

She did as part of H & Claire...

Posted by: Spiceboy 7th August 2018, 12:02 AM

and that flopped big time

Posted by: diamondtooth 7th August 2018, 07:10 AM

Her image was tainted 17 years after H & Claire. Nobody wanted a solo album from her then.
But now she has a more positive image and a successful Steps reunion. I think she suits the Radio 2 market quite well now.

The new single is on Spotify now. I like it.

Posted by: ___∆___ 7th August 2018, 08:49 AM

On My Own currently #24 on iTunes - doing MUCH better than I expected.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 7th August 2018, 08:01 PM

The public reception is much more positive for Claire now than it was when her and h released their album plus I think steps fans have "forgiven" now too so I think she could do ok with the album.

Posted by: Tawdry Hepburn 7th August 2018, 08:57 PM

'On My Own' is decent! I wasn't expecting a poppy ballad like that.

I'm not sure I'll be returning to it that much though.

Posted by: Rossco 7th August 2018, 10:57 PM

Not the biggest Claire fan but I absolutely LOVE the new single and as a result very interested in the album.

Posted by: pippa 8th August 2018, 02:53 PM

On My Own, is a wonderful debut solo single.
I am impressed and now excited for the album.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 9th August 2018, 01:00 AM

I hope the album has a few uptempo numbers too.

Posted by: ǝʎʞ 9th August 2018, 08:28 AM

wouldn’t it be great for this to turn into one of those radio 2 hits that heart + the likes picked up.
ngl though, i swear faye came in on the second verse but it was just claire singing in a lower register

i got the personalised signed album, couldn’t be bothered with the candle.. ha

Posted by: slowdown73 9th August 2018, 12:06 PM

I like on my own but don’t think she will be that successful as a solo singer. Her age will unfortunately go against her in terms of radio play & impact on streaming.

Posted by: Tawdry Hepburn 9th August 2018, 12:19 PM

I don't think anybody is under the illusion she will get hit singles. She's clearly aiming for the R2 audience for any potential album sales like Kylie, Rick Astley etc.

Posted by: pippa 9th August 2018, 01:32 PM

Claire and the record company will be fully aware there will be no single success.
The aim would be to achieve a silver or gold selling album.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 9th August 2018, 10:58 PM

Claire like so many others have little to no chance of having successful singles but acts like Claire can do well on the album chart with good promotion.

Posted by: pippa 7th September 2018, 01:57 PM

I am starting to get excited for the album and am truly looking forward to getting a copy.

Posted by: Good Old Days 19th September 2018, 07:46 AM

Very disappointed single, but better than last Steps' album.

Posted by: pippa 27th September 2018, 08:32 PM

Did you not enjoy Tears on The Dancefloor.
I thought it was a wonderful comeback album.

Posted by: Good Old Days 1st October 2018, 05:43 AM

It doesn't sounds like their three classic albums.
From all album tracks I love only "Story Of My Heart".

Posted by: Jay ☆ 1st October 2018, 10:54 AM

I really appreciated Tears on the Dancefloor for not being a complete rehash of their sound from 20 years ago. The new music still retained a Steps feel to it, but was inevitably more modern sounding... I think it worked wonderfully, they got it spot on.

~~~~

Here's Claire's new music video. I'm not sure if this is supposed to be the second single or just a pre-album taster:

Posted by: Spiceboy 1st October 2018, 09:02 PM

Tears on the dancefloor was epic! I loved it, hope their follow up is just as strong!

Posted by: pippa 3rd October 2018, 02:57 PM

I felt Steps couldn't have comeback any better than they did with Tears On The Dancefloor.

I had my dates mixed up with Claires, release, i had thought it was out this month and not next month

Posted by: ___∆___ 9th October 2018, 07:50 AM

Release date pushed back to Feb 1st....

Posted by: Count Olaf 9th October 2018, 08:07 AM

Perfect time to release an album with a Christmas song on it!

Posted by: PAJ88 9th October 2018, 08:09 AM

Deleted

Posted by: ___∆___ 9th October 2018, 08:37 AM

The projects a bit of a mess tbh - the December tour is going ahead with nobody knowing the songs

Am guessing poor pre-orders, ticket sales and lack of interest in the singles made Sony think this would get swallowed up in Q4? Am sure we’ll get the Christmas song released in December and it’ll be removed from the album?

Posted by: PAJ88 9th October 2018, 08:45 AM

I was thinking that. ( Christmas song)

I was really looking forward to this, still am.

Posted by: ThePensmith 9th October 2018, 09:11 PM

It's a bit of a mess how they've handled this, let's not lie. A shame because the two singles so far have been brilliant and are really a great showcase for Claire as a solo artist. That said, it probably does stand a better chance coming out in Q1 2019.

Posted by: slowdown73 10th October 2018, 08:29 AM

I can’t see this doing well - the songs so far haven’t been very good. No way near as good as the Steps material. It will flop!

Posted by: ___∆___ 10th October 2018, 10:31 AM

Yes ultimately it’s looking like being a 14-Out chart run if released in Q1 rather than a 33-Out if released in Q4, a flop either way but the material has not been as strong as it could have been with what we’ve heard so far.

Posted by: KWEEN_DEE 10th October 2018, 11:42 AM

She’ll be rolling out the ‘one for sorrow’ solo version no doubt

Posted by: pippa 10th October 2018, 06:39 PM

The campaign is starting to show they have doubt over its success.
Pushing it back 4 months when the album is ready shows this.
I would think they may slightly change the track listing too.

Posted by: ___∆___ 11th October 2018, 09:54 AM

Yes first thing I thought tbh. Assuming that the CDs have already been pressed plus the tour is going ahead as planned in December so to push it back means they must not be happy with the pre-orders and interest in the singles plus they know they will get drowned in Q4.

Posted by: ___∆___ 11th October 2018, 09:55 AM

Or ‘Deeper Shade Of Blue’

She missed a trick not releasing ‘I Surrender’ from the original comeback tour - the crowd reaction to it was always immense.

Posted by: Tawdry Hepburn 11th October 2018, 10:11 AM

I'm not really sure it'll do any better in the new year?

I don't think it's beyond the realms of possibility that this album may not end up being released.

Posted by: ___∆___ 11th October 2018, 10:49 AM

This - the only thing I can see being different is that it’ll get a higher chart position due to the lower sales climate but it’s not going to be a ‘hit’.

The fact they have already I’m guessing pressed the CDs and are now scrapping them makes me think too that this could end up a ‘straight to iTunes’ release.

Posted by: KWEEN_DEE 19th November 2018, 08:06 PM

I’m going to her launch party tomorrow. Can’t discose much info but i wanna make references to Slave To Food

Wondering if shes locking us in till Feb though?

Posted by: Martyn 19th November 2018, 08:13 PM

Why are they launching this in November if it isn't out for months?

Posted by: Tawdry Hepburn 19th November 2018, 08:27 PM

Maybe everyone involved has forgotten the release date has been changed?

Posted by: KWEEN_DEE 19th November 2018, 08:49 PM

The whole thing is really odd

Posted by: tommie 19th November 2018, 09:14 PM

It'll get a higher peak at least.

But yeah, this just shows that interest is low and they didn't want it to get completely lost in the Christmas rush (ie peak at #67 or something).

Posted by: KWEEN_DEE 21st November 2018, 08:41 AM

Album launch was fun !

Claires really lovely and personable. Very warm.

Xmas song is more of a winter track than a Xmas song. Its more a song that features a Christmas reference instead of being a fully fledged Xmas number. She said it was coming next Fri (or it may have been this Fri).

Theres a really upbeat track on the album that I said was super G-A-Y (the nightclub) ready and we laughed about men in hot pants danxing to it.

Oh and we also baked a cake:

https://instagram.com/p/BqakWDElK7-/

Posted by: pippa 21st November 2018, 09:56 PM

Why an album launch now? when it is not available for a further 3 months, this doesn't make any sense.
It could be an indication that the album is going to be handled terribly.

Posted by: KWEEN_DEE 21st November 2018, 11:39 PM

Guess it helps promote the tour?

Posted by: tommie 22nd November 2018, 08:22 AM

I just assume they had everything booked and invites sent out before deciding to push it back and decided to just go ahead with it.

Posted by: Good Old Days 27th November 2018, 06:21 AM

I like her Christmas song.

Posted by: pippa 27th November 2018, 09:57 PM

I like everything i have heard so far.
Based on what i have heard, i will be purchasing the album.

Posted by: allfiredup93 6th December 2018, 10:28 PM

Gutted I couldn’t make the London show tonight in the end 😔 did anyone here see the show?

Posted by: ___∆___ 7th December 2018, 10:16 AM

Yes I was there and met her afterwards

The show was amazing and it’s good she included some H&Claire and Steps too, even though the albums not been released and people didn’t know the majority of the songs it was still a great show. It’s made me really excited for the album - speaking with her she’s clearly disappointed with how it’s all been handled by Sony so I think she’ll go all out when it does finally get released (Every TV show that will have her, HMV signing etc.,).

Posted by: allfiredup93 7th December 2018, 05:16 PM

My Heart is Heading Home For Christmas is now available as part of the album (also a longer version) and Shame on You will be the next (final?) instant grat.

People are doubting me when saying that when I’ve physically downloaded the new MHIHHFC and know how instant gears work but yeah xD

Posted by: allfiredup93 3rd January 2019, 07:04 PM

Shame on You is out at midnight along with its music video.

Posted by: dannjohn 3rd January 2019, 07:25 PM

I think SOY is the one i called tailored for g-a-y

Posted by: pippa 3rd January 2019, 07:51 PM

Claire will need to have strong promotion lined up in the coming weeks to get attention around the release of the album.

Posted by: allfiredup93 4th January 2019, 12:35 PM

Such a feel-good track! Kicking off 2019 right 😊

Posted by: pippa 4th January 2019, 06:30 PM

Up to 52 on iTunes now

Posted by: lewistgreen 13th January 2019, 04:21 PM

Shame On You is the first single that’s clicked with me so far, a nice little bop!

Posted by: Tombo 14th January 2019, 02:41 PM

Shame On You is really good, it is my favourite release from her so far.

Posted by: Good Old Days 14th January 2019, 02:54 PM

Very disappointed era, more like last Steps album , than already iconic "Another You, Another Me".

Posted by: pippa 14th January 2019, 07:34 PM

Steps last album Tears On The Dancefloor was a strong album and much stronger than Another Me Another You,

Posted by: Jay ☆ 15th January 2019, 03:29 AM

^ Agreed, they're worlds apart in quality. Also Claire's solo music so far is absolutely nothing like Tears on the Dancefloor, so that's a strange comparison to make, Good Old Days.

Posted by: slowdown73 15th January 2019, 02:29 PM

I like shame on you but none of Claire’s other singles have clicked with me. Really not expecting her to do well.

Posted by: pippa 15th January 2019, 07:58 PM

I think if the album could make silver status it would be a big success for Claire.

Posted by: Jay ☆ 16th January 2019, 03:38 AM

^ I’d be surprised if it managed 20k+ tbh.

Posted by: Prettylittlebry 16th January 2019, 07:04 AM

These Wings seems to be another instant grat. Surprised at this as we are only really 2 weeks away.

Posted by: pippa 17th January 2019, 09:32 PM

They know there will be no hits from the album so they are just trying to get songs out there.

Posted by: Knightr634 17th January 2019, 10:31 PM

Claire will be on The Graham Norton Show next Friday

Posted by: ThePensmith 25th January 2019, 01:53 PM

She'll perform 'These Wings' on Graham Norton tonight. Also just announced today that she's gonna be supporting Celine Dion at her Hyde Park gig in July!

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 25th January 2019, 03:26 PM

2 good platforms there that will help plug the album

Posted by: Jay ☆ 25th January 2019, 05:58 PM

Fantastic for Claire! I wish I was able to go to Celine's show.

Posted by: slowdown73 26th January 2019, 12:15 AM

These wings is the strongest track so far. Very good in fact! The album won’t do well though, it will barely sell 20k.

Posted by: Good Old Days 27th January 2019, 05:12 PM

These Wings.
Finally something similar to her old songs.

Posted by: ___∆___ 27th January 2019, 06:18 PM

Disappointing a key promo slot didn’t manage to get ‘These Wings’ into the iTunes Top 100!

Overall sales of the album won’t be great but hopeful it will give her a decent chart placing in week 1.

Posted by: Jay ☆ 27th January 2019, 08:26 PM

It did go iTunes Top 100 briefly! 70ish. Not great but nevertheless it managed Top 100 haha.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 27th January 2019, 08:43 PM

It was a great performance and I like the song.

Posted by: pippa 28th January 2019, 09:29 PM

Critically the performance has got a positive response.

Posted by: ___∆___ 28th January 2019, 09:35 PM

Well hopefully it will translate into album sales!

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 28th January 2019, 11:13 PM

Me too, I still hope the album can go top 10 but after that it could plummet

Posted by: gooddelta 31st January 2019, 04:43 PM

These Wings is huge, could easily be on something like the Frozen soundtrack. Great track and easily the best from the album so far.

Posted by: PAJ88 31st January 2019, 09:12 PM

Listening through the album now, I’m really enjoying it.

Posted by: slowdown73 1st February 2019, 12:13 AM

Sounds quite promising from the clips on iTunes.

Posted by: Mr. C. Joel 1st February 2019, 01:47 PM

Actually a really nice album played it on Spotify today

Posted by: Prettylittlebry 1st February 2019, 03:36 PM

Noticed the albums above Claire on iTunes (Busted and Ian Brown) have release dates later than this week, is that an error in general or have their releases been changed last minute?

Posted by: PAJ88 3rd February 2019, 10:42 AM

7 Billion is quite a good song, enjoying it a lot so far.

Posted by: myxxd 3rd February 2019, 11:46 AM

7 billion should be a single just give it a try

Posted by: Prettylittlebry 4th February 2019, 06:28 PM

#5 in the midweeks!

Posted by: pippa 4th February 2019, 08:48 PM

I would be so happy if the album can get a Top 10 placement on Friday.

Posted by: JosephAvery 7th February 2019, 09:49 PM

I really like the album as a whole but it's These Wings I keep going back to

Posted by: pippa 8th February 2019, 03:07 PM

The album is much stronger than i had anticipated.

Posted by: pippa 8th February 2019, 06:50 PM

Number 9 and sales of over 6000.
No matter what the outcome from here on with the album she has a solo Top 10 album to her credit and likely the only Steps member who will have that.

Posted by: Good Old Days 9th February 2019, 07:23 PM

In 2002 H & Claire album was peaked at # 58 and sold 5k on the first week.
Now 6k is enough for top 10.

Posted by: ___∆___ 9th February 2019, 08:33 PM

Always thought the amazing H&Claire album would have been Top 20 any other time of the year - terrible decision by the record company to release in December.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 10th February 2019, 12:12 PM

I was so surprised how low the album charted at the time, I did like the album but I dont listen to it much nowadays as unlike the steps albums I dont think it aged well. Still for claire its 2 top75 albums outside steps.

Posted by: Good Old Days 10th February 2019, 12:58 PM

I'm not alone in love with H and Claire album

"Another You, Another Me" is in my all-top 3 albums, possibly even # 1.
All 9 singles (2-3-4) from these three albums (2002-2003 releases) became top 20 hits, but each from them even didn't reach top 40 in UK albums chart.

Based on this fact, possibly you already can name other two.

Posted by: Jay ☆ 11th February 2019, 06:56 AM

I doubt H & Claire's album sold that much in total! It shipped 60,000 copies to stores in its first week, which is why it has a Silver certification (in those days it was based on shipments, not sales). Given its chart run is 58-97-128-out and it sold 5,000 in week 1, I don't think it could have amassed 60k+ sales overall. Their label greatly overestimated demand for the album.

Posted by: ___∆___ 11th February 2019, 10:53 AM

Predictions for the album in today’s mids? I think it will be outside the Top 50

Posted by: pippa 11th February 2019, 03:20 PM

I cant see how the H & Claire album would be silver so i would think it is an error as it was a huge flop.
My prediction for today are Top 50 but i dread it could be lower.
If it was Top 40 it would be a good result.

Posted by: Jay ☆ 11th February 2019, 04:37 PM

It can't be an error because in those days a label had to apply for a certification based on the number of shipments to stores, so they had to have shipped 60k+ in order to be eligible to apply for a silver cert! For some reason they just massively overestimated the demand. The same happened with All Saints - Studio 1 in 2006, Parlophone shipped 100k+ and it has a Gold disc, but it had only actually sold 40k by 2016!

~

Claire's album is mid #64 today, but I'm not particularly surprised by the drop (and it's only going to get worse, there's no way it'll remain Top 100 on Friday unfortunately).

Posted by: pippa 11th February 2019, 04:43 PM

That midweeks position is truly disappointing.
I did expect it may not manage a second week Top 100.
I had thought she would easily manage a second week in the Top 75.
She needs to get out doing store signings (wishful thinking) to curb the decline.

Posted by: ___∆___ 11th February 2019, 04:56 PM

#64 is tragic tbh In fairness she done all she could (except signings) in week 1 and she sold personalised signed albums via her online store. 9-out is a disaster and I doubt Sony will be rushing to release a follow up - pleased she managed a solo ‘hit’ album though.

Posted by: pippa 11th February 2019, 05:04 PM

The album i felt would never have been big enough for her to have a follow up.
For Claire, i think doing one solo album completes something on her wish list.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 11th February 2019, 10:51 PM

Ouch at the tumble but it's not a massive surprise.

Posted by: kye 11th February 2019, 11:28 PM

i think it was to be expected but it's still sad. so glad it managed top 10.

she had some pretty decent promo slots, i mean.. graham norton! but it's just hard to find an audience for her outside the steps fanbase.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 12th February 2019, 12:22 AM

Ya very much so and the promo was all packed in together so there isnt much to help keep it selling.

Posted by: ___∆___ 12th February 2019, 08:37 AM

That’s the issue with the fragile album market now - so much is pumped into week 1 (Signed copies, special editions, multi buy bundles, signings, TV/Radio promo) that it leaves nothing left for week 2! The album chart now has become the singles chart of the 2000s - enter high and plummet.

Posted by: JosephAvery 12th February 2019, 11:28 AM

Has that not always been the case?

The low sales mean it's easier to slip and slide down the chart, plus missing streaming added at the end of the week. That's the only difference.

Posted by: ___∆___ 12th February 2019, 03:02 PM

It’s more noticeable now with the sales decline - it has of course been happening for years but albums were going 28-out rather than what we are seeing now.

Posted by: gooddelta 12th February 2019, 03:34 PM

Have just bought this on CD. A shockingly good album, I was expecting it to be quite bland and samey but despite it mostly being ballads, the melodies are huge and there are a lot of 'classic' sounding songs.

Posted by: pippa 12th February 2019, 07:26 PM

Claire has delivered a strong debut and it deserves success on a much bigger level than achieved.

Posted by: ___∆___ 13th February 2019, 08:53 PM

Radio 2 album of the week - could give it a boost? (Not sure how much of an impact AOTW has?)

Posted by: pippa 14th February 2019, 02:42 PM

Boost would help the album have a chance of staying on the actual chart for a 2nd week.

Posted by: Spiceboy 14th February 2019, 09:53 PM

Hey she managed a top 10 album, that's nothing to be sniffed at for an ex popband member Mark Owen and Mel B never managed one I take my hat off to her.

I'd love it if Melanie C or Emma Bunton could manage a top 20 album again nevermind top 10!

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 15th February 2019, 01:07 AM

Good point I didnt look at it that way before. I seen where Faye has said Steps are booked in to start work on the their next album too, the claire album has helped bridge the gap.

Posted by: pippa 15th February 2019, 06:35 PM

The album suffers a 99 place drop to a hugely disappointing Number 108.

Posted by: slowdown73 15th February 2019, 11:35 PM

That’s a steel drop. I’m going to buy the album but waiting for price drop.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 16th February 2019, 11:46 AM

That's a bad fall and way worse than I thought it would it would do.

Posted by: Jay ☆ 16th February 2019, 12:13 PM

5-36 in the sales chart. Claire was always going to be front loaded, and inevitable that she wouldn’t have streaming on her side. She only managed 87 streaming units last week, and when she’s surrounded by old albums doing 1,000+ streaming units, it’s clearly not going to go in her favour.

Claire didn’t manage great radio airplay support & apart from her Graham Norton slot, her promo was quite low key - and all focused towards week 1. There was very little done to keep the album afloat beyond that.

It’s worth noting a few other new albums experienced harsh falls. 15-138 for Within Temptation, 21-147 for Nina Nesbitt, 14-163 White Lies. It happens in other weeks too. Some artists just aren’t able to compete with those that have a strong and consistent streaming & airplay support.

Let’s just be happy that Claire managed Top 10 at all, as others have said, not all “pop group member gone solo” manage that.

Posted by: Good Old Days 16th February 2019, 03:48 PM

Very good achievement.
Sadly album sales almost dead now.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 17th February 2019, 07:17 PM

Much better result in the sales chart.

Posted by: ManicKangaroo 28th March 2019, 07:37 PM

Claire releases a remix of 7 Billion tonight

Posted by: pippa 29th March 2019, 03:55 PM

It is just great they are continuing releases considering how the overall release has sold.
An album that really under achieved and not down to poor quality.

Posted by: lewistgreen 29th March 2019, 07:25 PM

Bangin’

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 12th September 2019, 01:34 AM

Shame nothing else was really done in support of the album.

Posted by: tommie 12th September 2019, 02:30 AM

They released singles and had her do promo slots - what else should they have done?

Posted by: ___∆___ 12th September 2019, 08:29 PM

I have to agree, I think Sony done the best they could with this tbh.

We had a lot of promo, 2 album launches, personalized signed CD pre-orders, remix packages of each single, mini headline tour etc.,

The public were just not there for a solo Claire album.

Posted by: pippa 12th September 2019, 08:41 PM

The public, with the exception of her very loyal fanbase ignored the album.
The album was given a chance via promotional pushes, singles and remixes but these did not connect enough with the public to persuade them to part with their money and invest in her album.
It is disappointing as it is a good album deserving of much greater success.

Posted by: pippa 17th April 2021, 02:00 PM

Do fans consider Claire's album as the strongest material outside the Steps releases?

Posted by: JosephStyles 17th April 2021, 11:31 PM

I still truly adore These Wings

Posted by: spiceboy 17th April 2021, 11:41 PM

We don't really have much to compare to. I personally think Lisa's stuff was the strongest out of the solo releases. That said I'd love a Faye solo album, her voice is just beautiful.

Posted by: The Architect 18th April 2021, 01:42 AM

I have Lisa’s album but ha bet listened to it for a good 10 years. I love Lately and Too Far Gone and Electric is good. I should give it another listen.

Re Claire’s album: I got the deluxe version and love it, a couple of filler songs but it’s a really strong offering with some fantastic songs on it.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 18th April 2021, 01:14 PM

O think h and Claire's is prob the best from their work outside steps, I agree about wanting a Faye solo album and i liked her single with Russell Watson.

Posted by: Rossco 18th April 2021, 09:17 PM

On My Own is a stunning song, still listen to it frequently.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 19th April 2021, 03:50 PM

Claires album would also be interesting if all the tracks got remixed as some of them could work in a more upbeat sounding remix,

Posted by: Yobnedor 26th March 2022, 12:45 PM

Claire Richards - My Wildest Dreams Listening Party!

Tomorrow - 6.30pm!

Time to start some solo action!

1 On My Own
2 End Before We Start
3 7 Billion
4 These Wings
5 Deep Waters
6 Liar
7 Brave
8 Shame on You
9 Ruins
10 My Wildest Dreams
11 For Now
12 Don't Leave Me in This Love Alone

And of course the bonuses but I’ll add them in later!

Posted by: Hazelnuts 26th March 2022, 03:48 PM

Yeah

I might not join but I will definitely leave my comments later!

Posted by: -Jay- 26th March 2022, 05:47 PM

I should be able to make this one *gasp*!

Posted by: Paradise Lost 26th March 2022, 09:55 PM

I can't make this but will join in later.

Should we add the three extra deluxe tracks?

Posted by: spiceboy 26th March 2022, 09:57 PM

I will try make this one! It will be the first time I hear the album if so!

Posted by: Yobnedor 27th March 2022, 08:28 AM

We can do! I forgot about them… great start!

Posted by: Paradise Lost 27th March 2022, 09:01 AM

Thanks, if I recall correctly I quite liked all of them. Looking forward to revisiting this over the next day or so.

Posted by: Hazelnuts 27th March 2022, 11:33 AM

I might join later when I’m omw home in the train.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 27th March 2022, 01:47 PM

Not sure yet if I can make this, il do my best.

Posted by: Yobnedor 27th March 2022, 06:24 PM

It’s okay, I think we’ve all been busy today and I was a little poorly so I’ll postpone it!

Posted by: Hazelnuts 27th March 2022, 06:43 PM

That’s a good idea

Posted by: Paradise Lost 27th March 2022, 08:09 PM

Good idea, hopefully the new time will be better. 😊

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 27th March 2022, 09:38 PM

Maybe next sunday.

Posted by: Hazelnuts 2nd April 2022, 10:12 AM

Will we try again tomorrow?

Posted by: Yobnedor 2nd April 2022, 11:05 AM

I’m up for tomorrow?

Posted by: Paradise Lost 2nd April 2022, 11:20 AM

I’m good for whenever. Well obviously not whenever but I’ll contribute soon after.

Posted by: Yobnedor 2nd April 2022, 11:44 AM

I’m hoping Jay might join this one…

Posted by: -Jay- 2nd April 2022, 05:53 PM

I'm feeling quite confident that I can!

Posted by: Yobnedor 2nd April 2022, 07:40 PM

I’ll believe it when I see it.

Even in my wildest dreams I don’t see it happening.

Posted by: Yobnedor 3rd April 2022, 11:52 AM

Not gonna lie, we may have to postpone unless Jay can take over. I’ve got a stomach bug and …. Without going into massive detail, posting every three minutes is not doable right now!

Posted by: Hazelnuts 3rd April 2022, 02:13 PM

I might not be able to make it.

And get well James

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 3rd April 2022, 03:43 PM

If its not suiting people we may have to leave it for another day.

Posted by: spiceboy 3rd April 2022, 03:45 PM

Already too much detail 🤢

Posted by: Yobnedor 3rd April 2022, 04:16 PM

Was that supposed to be replying to me?!

Posted by: Yobnedor 3rd April 2022, 05:23 PM

Tomorrow, 6.30pm - final try!

Posted by: -Jay- 3rd April 2022, 05:58 PM

Be there, or face the wrath of Claire on Twitter!

Posted by: Paradise Lost 3rd April 2022, 09:14 PM

The new time is fine with me. Hope you’re feeling better James.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 02:51 AM

I'm hopimg to make it for the listening party.

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 05:01 AM

I think I can attend tonight

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 05:16 PM

Yes or no for tonight?

I’m ready in case it’s a yes

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 05:20 PM

I can attend for about half an hour at 6.30.

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 05:21 PM

Cool!

Hopefully it’ll take place though?

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 05:24 PM

Yes I’m here

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 05:25 PM

Yeah

Hopefully doing ok though?

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 05:27 PM

Just about… ish.

For that reason, I’m just going to post a playlist as opposed to videos for each song. We can all chip in when we get to each respective song. If we start at half past on the dot, we will be pretty much in sync.

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 05:28 PM

I hope this works ha!

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 05:29 PM

Don’t faint but I’m actually here

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 05:30 PM

Sorry to hear and I hope it gets better soon!

And works for me

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 05:31 PM

1. On My Own

I know this one and it’s very Claire. I hope the whole album isn’t “very Claire.” I’d like a few surprises!

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 05:31 PM

Track 1: On My Own

The lead single A perfect introduction to this album.

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 05:31 PM

I do enjoy On my own more then I remembered. It’s an Claire anthem without overdoing it imo. The only downfall for me are the lyrics.

Still, 7.5/10

Posted by: JosephStyles 4th April 2022, 05:32 PM

I'm a tiny bit behind but I'm here and listening! Actually heard this before any Steps group album. On My Own is a strong lead, very infectious chorus!

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 05:33 PM

I’m not sure if that’s a good thing or bad!

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 05:33 PM

Heyyyy! Welcome

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 05:33 PM

im here for a while too

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 05:34 PM

Track 2: End Before We Start

I think this is very pleasant, but it’s subtle - I think it would have been better left as an album track. There’s a couple of stronger ballads that could have made better singles.

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 05:34 PM

End before we start is nice enough. It’s a little too save and ‘been there, done that’ for me. Actually that’s the biggest problem for me with this album in general. Nice produced, not bad but also predictable at moments.

6/10

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 05:35 PM

Welcome

The power of Claire!

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 05:35 PM

I think there’ll be a couple of surprises at least!

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 05:35 PM

I do like on my own and its a great album opener

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 05:36 PM

2. End Before We Start

This one hasn’t done anything to quash my worry that the whole album will be “very Claire.” These songs are perfect for her but I do feel she also knows her solo audience quite well. The mums who love her at the group gigs will eat this kinda song up!

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 05:37 PM

I also really like End Before We Start and i think it works really well following on my own on the album.

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 05:37 PM

Track 3: 7 Billion

One of my favourites! This one has a killer chorus

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 05:37 PM

7 billion is very Kelly C, not in a bad way. More upbeat and diverse moods throughout the song. Despite some corny lyrics I enjoy this one!

7/10

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 05:39 PM

3. 7 Billion

Okay this is a bit more like it and definitely one that suits Claire’s vocal range. I wouldn’t say Steps level of bop but it’s certainly radio friendly and upbeat. I wouldn’t skip anyways!

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 05:39 PM

I agree they are perfect for her and fit what her audience want from her

Posted by: JosephStyles 4th April 2022, 05:39 PM

End Before We Start is lovely if a little pedestrian!

7 Billion is more like it, not given this one as much attention as I should have.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 05:40 PM

7 billion i like but at times i feel its too high pitched in some parts.

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 05:40 PM

Pedestrian is a great description to be fair!

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 05:41 PM

These wings is ok/nice. Nothing new at all. Very Claire though. Could’ve been shorter for me.

6/10

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 05:41 PM

Track 4: These Wings

Completely stunning A highlight moment on the album. Surprised it was passed over as a single.

Posted by: JosephStyles 4th April 2022, 05:42 PM

These Wings is my favourite, she sounds incredible and I love how it builds! A top 10 hit in my personal chart!

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 05:43 PM

4. These Wings

When I just saw the title of this before it started playing, I knew it would be a piano ballad type thing.

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 05:43 PM

Oh my gif didn’t appear.

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 05:43 PM

No shade for this one, Hazelnuts that score is far too low x

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 05:44 PM

Lovely to read your views and we have more people this time

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 05:45 PM

I’m not perfect x

I find it too predictable, that’s all

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 05:45 PM

Track 5: Deep Waters

It’s a lovely bop! 💃🏻

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 05:45 PM

These wings, is a decent piano ballad but i always wish the chorus was just a little stronger

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 05:46 PM

Deep waters is a bit all over the place for me. Good that they are trying something a bit different moodwise but the execution is a bit ‘meh’.

5/10

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 05:46 PM

I like deep waters and its different to the 4 previous tracks and is in the right place on the album following these wings.

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 05:46 PM

5. Deep Waters

I can’t help but feel I’ve heard this somewhere before. Was this a promo single or something? A song on an advert?

Not too bad Claire.

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 05:48 PM

I do like Liar actually. It’s simply but in a good way.

6.5/10

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 05:48 PM

Track 6: Liar

Not one I went back to often when the album was new, but some beautiful and somewhat restrained vocals from Claire here.

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 05:49 PM

6. Liar

No I have to say this one isn’t grabbing me really. Sounds like a phoned in vocal really.

Did Claire write any of the songs on the album?

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 05:49 PM

Yes it was one of the instant grats!

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 05:50 PM

[code][/code]Oh, Liar does drags a little bit though.

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 05:50 PM

Ahhh I think I heard that one and On My Own and that’s it…

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 05:51 PM

Liar is the weakest song at this point, its not a terrible song but it just doesnt really go anywhere.

Posted by: JosephStyles 4th April 2022, 05:51 PM

Deep Waters is a bop! Liar is probably my least favourite so far but I appreciate that she's using her voice differently on this one

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 05:52 PM

Claire co-wrote Brave, I think that’s it!

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 05:52 PM

Good point she does use her voice differently on Liar which is good,

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 05:52 PM

Brave sounds very like an ‘ending up at #32 at ESC in 2007’. Not that bad, but very inoffensive.

5.5/10

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 05:54 PM

7. Brave

Jay where are these surprises you speak of. I might switch on Encanto at this rate…

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 05:54 PM

Good analysis but i think more 19th,

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 05:54 PM

Hahahahahhaaha so true!!

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 05:54 PM

Track 7: Brave

I was going to say that this gives me Eurovision, actually! But I think it would place in the 20s, not 32nd xx

It’s a nice song, a change of pace compared to previous songs. She sounds strong in a lower register!

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 05:55 PM

I am surprised Claire didnt go for Eurovision in the years steps wernt together. Maybe she will in the future.

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 05:56 PM

Track 8: Shame on You

💃🏻💃🏻💃🏻💃🏻💃🏻 The song I listen to most regularly from the album. B o p!

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 05:56 PM

8. Shame On You

I am here!!! What an intro, girl I’ve been waiting for this one since half six!

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 05:56 PM

I’m not, she doesn’t think much of Eurovision!

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 05:57 PM

Shame on you is a bop but for some strange reason when i listen to it i always think the song would be better suited to Lisa than Claire.

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 05:57 PM

Yes, I like Shame on you. I do think I enjoy uplifting/dancey Claire more. Also, the album needed some more power at this point otherwise I’d check out. Not to bash it, it’s just a bit too save this far.

7.5/10

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 05:57 PM

Plenty of time yet.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 05:57 PM

In the quiet years it would have kept her name out there,

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 05:58 PM

It means work for her… oops.

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 05:58 PM

Don’t think ESC would do her much favors?

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 05:58 PM

Ya i wouldn't completely rule it out.

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 05:58 PM

I mean yes, you aren’t wrong there!

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 05:59 PM

I’ll confidently say she’ll never do Eurovision, bookmark me and check back on this post every March x

Posted by: JosephStyles 4th April 2022, 06:01 PM

Brave is solid, a comfortable midtable on the album for me.

Shame on You... bop

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 06:01 PM

Would you prefer Claire solo or Steps for eurovision if it was to happen?

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 06:01 PM

Put your lighters in the air for Ruins. It sounds like another song that I can’t recall right now. A bit boring..

6/10

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 06:01 PM

Ruins,slows the album back down again after a bit of uptempo, not bad but not the best on the album either.

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 06:01 PM

Steps for ESC!

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 06:01 PM

Track 9: Ruins

Yes this song is an “expected” sound, blah blah, but Claire certainly knows what suits her vocals, and this chorus is gorgeous! If it was a Celine song it would have stood out on her most recent album.

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 06:02 PM

9. Ruins

It was going so well!!

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 06:03 PM

I will hear no shade on Courage. She had the … ahem… courage to try something new.

Posted by: JosephStyles 4th April 2022, 06:03 PM

Ruins is great, had forgotten this but it's beautiful!

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 06:04 PM

My wildest dreams is okish. Another song that’s not bad but a bit safe/bland/too long.

6/10

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 06:04 PM

Claire because I think she’s have less to lose if she did it but flopped. Steps have attained a great level of success and respect with this comeback, so I think Eurovision would be far too risky for them with potentially no benefits at all!

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 06:04 PM

I mean, the fan in me would prefer Steps but I know it wouldn’t end well for them. So, send solo Claire!

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 06:04 PM

True though

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 06:05 PM

10. My Wildest Dreams

Not too bad - clear why she named the album after this song, especially with the double meaning I guess. Top half of the album but so far, that’s just about scraping a compliment.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 06:06 PM

Ya i would agree, although musically i prefer steps, i think it would be better is Claire did it alone.

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 06:06 PM

Track 10: My Wildest Dreams

A stand out moment on the album I can tell she really connected with this one, she sings very passionately.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 06:06 PM

My wildest dreams is good, i like the chorus alot for it,

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 06:06 PM

What works in the favour of the better songs on this album is that they run for longer than 3 mins. Refreshing.

It’s a downside when it’s not a good one though…

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 06:08 PM

For now…zzzzzzz….my least favorite this far.

5/10

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 06:09 PM

For now, another good enough song but i think it suffers a little from the ballad heaviness of the album.

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 06:10 PM

Track 11: For Now

A soaring track, and while it doesn’t particularly stand out, it’s another beautiful vocal delivery!

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 06:10 PM

Track 11: For Now

Yep, agree with everything said so far!

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 06:11 PM

at this point of the album i think another uptempo was needed to break it up more.

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 06:12 PM

Track 12: Don’t Leave Me in This Love Alone

This is such a gorgeous closer to the standard album, powerful and a bit of drama here. I like how she’s using her voice here, a deeper pitch than she typically goes for when she belts. For me this is definitely in the top half of the album.

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 06:12 PM

Don’t leave me on this life alone is another nice/done by the numbers kind of song for me.

6/10

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 06:12 PM

Agreed!

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 06:13 PM

Track 12: Don’t Leave Me in This Love Alone

This would be the song she would sing if the group still had solo sections - just to belt something out! It’s alright!

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 06:13 PM

Dont leave me in this love alone while another ballad feels way more uplifting than for now which kinda felt a bit forgettable.

Posted by: JosephStyles 4th April 2022, 06:15 PM

Gorgeous closer (to the standard album)! The title track was great too, For Now not a highlight but there's nothing bad to be found on this album

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 06:16 PM

the standard version in a way was probably enough and it was a good closer.

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 06:17 PM

Forever ends with you is another track that is giving me ESC vibes. At least not another ballad.

6/10

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 06:18 PM

Track 13: Forever Ends With You

This definitely adds a different flavour to the album, certainly in terms of the production & the chanty delivery. I can understand why it didn’t make the main track list, but I don’t mean that in the sense that it isn’t good enough, it just fits in better as a deluxe moment! I like it!

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 06:18 PM

forever ends with you, i agree has eurovision vibe but in todays world of eurovision probably a DNQ

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 06:19 PM

Track 13: Forever Ends With You

Started out really well with a funky beat and then just went Claire by numbers, shame.

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 06:19 PM

If I didn’t have you is giving me Delta! Nice track I have to say. Not to slow or too long like some of the songs.

6.5/10

Posted by: JosephStyles 4th April 2022, 06:20 PM

Forever Ends With You is a nice change of pace, though I wouldn't have swapped it into the main tracklist given the opportunity I must admit.

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 06:20 PM

Track 14: If I Didn’t Have You

I thought deluxe tracks were supposed to show a side that the rest of the album didn’t have? Well… hmm.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 06:20 PM

Ya the deluxe in this case missed the boat. If i didnt have you definitely suffers from Claire oversinging it but even that aside its still not great,

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 06:21 PM

Track 14: If I Didn’t Have You

I can kind of imagine this having been a Steps album track back in the day, if it had a poppier production. This kind of gives me a country vibe. Anyway, I can imagine Faye singing on this too!

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 06:22 PM

Lol, I feel like these two tracks actually do show a different side? Nothing on the main album has the vibe of these two tracks.

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 06:22 PM

I understand why they added My heart is heading home. Could’ve been a nice b-side during Steptacular. A bit too long as well for me.

6/10

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 06:23 PM

This second one is very Claire by numbers though.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 06:23 PM

The deluxe just didnt work for me as it was too much of the same and it kind of made the album feel boring, its a very Claire album to be fair but give me a steps album anyday, even with steps im not a huge fan of their slow numbers i much prefer upbeat steps and i think Claires album for me suffers from having very little upbeat on it.

Posted by: JosephStyles 4th April 2022, 06:23 PM

This one's really picked up as it's gone on!

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 06:23 PM

I won’t be listening to the Christmas song…

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 06:24 PM

Track 15: My Heart Is Heading Home (This Christmas)

A very pretty song, but like the Steps Christmas album, I feel that this is more “winter” in its vibe than “Christmas” specifically.

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 06:24 PM

Oh do, it’s not particularly Christmassy.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 06:24 PM

My heart is heading home, again not a bad song but im ballad drained at this point.

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 06:26 PM

Overal:

+ Claire doing her own thing!
+ Her target audience is very clear. You either enjoy this album or not.
+ The upbeat songs really work for me.

- Not that original.
- 10 tracks would be fine by me.

Go Claire but I’m not the biggest fan of this album.

6.5/10

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 06:26 PM

Its good Claire fulfilled her ambition to record and release a solo album as its something she wanted to do for a long time so its good that she achieved it and also got a top 10 album it, but going forward i would prefer for her to put all her efforts in steps as it works better, well for me any way.

Posted by: JosephStyles 4th April 2022, 06:26 PM

The Christmas track is very pretty

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 06:26 PM

I would agree with this entirely.

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 06:27 PM

Agree with all this too.

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 06:27 PM

I really disagree Clearly I’m hearing something different, but tracks 13/14 are not particularly similar to the main album.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 06:27 PM

Thanks for doing this, it was good that a few could join in, but have to head now,

Posted by: Hazelnuts 4th April 2022, 06:28 PM

Thanks for starting the party James and I hope you get well soon!

Also, thanks to everyone else for joining. It’s great to read your thoughts!

For now..have a lovely evening

Posted by: Yobnedor 4th April 2022, 06:30 PM

Thanks all for joining! Glad we finally got it smashed!

Posted by: -Jay- 4th April 2022, 06:40 PM

Thank yooooooou

I think there’s so much to appreciate about this album. I don’t think there was enough praise regarding how strong yet varied her vocals are throughout this album. She changed it up depending on the mood of the track, which for me is the main quality that prevents the album from becoming samey. She could have easily belted the entire thing, but there’s some truly pretty and delicate vocals in particular songs, a side of her that she never really got to show off in Steps.

The album feels authentically Claire and I think that’s important. She may not have contributed to the writing of the album (bar one song) but it certainly comes across to me that she connected with these songs.

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 4th April 2022, 07:08 PM

I do agree it's very authentically Claire and I think she made an album true to herself. I think she released the album more for own ambition rather than chasing solo success so she deserves a lot of praise for that.

Posted by: Paradise Lost 4th April 2022, 10:13 PM

I'll be catching up on this later today and I'm looking forward to doing so.

I've got a few things I need to do first but I'll be listening through and contributing as well.

Posted by: Paradise Lost 5th April 2022, 02:31 AM

Getting my listen through underway now!


On My Own:

The debut single solo single from Claire and it's a perfect fit for her. I loved this from the first listen and it had me eagerly awaiting the album that would follow.


End Before We Start:

This is my favourite song from the whole album, it's utterly brilliant. It's that ballad type song we'd all expect Claire to sing and she does it extremely well. I feel like had have this been released 3 to 5 years earlier by someone like Paloma Faith it would've been a top 5 hit.


7 Billion:

Another one of my favourites from the album, which is off to a very solid start by the way. One of the more upbeat songs on the album it's a very enjoyable listen and one I go back to regularly.


These Wings:

This is a very beautiful songs, the one Claire sang on Graham Norton if I remember correctly.


Deep Waters:

The first one I'm not completely sold on. It's ok for me but not up to the same level of the other songs so far. It is nice to hear stuff other than ballads though.

Posted by: Paradise Lost 5th April 2022, 02:50 AM

Liar:

I quite like this song, it's not what I'd quite expect from a Claire ballad but it's really nice. Really enjoying the ordering of the tracks so far.


Brave:

I like this one, the end part in particular when the choir kicks in it's very nice.


Shame On You:

A big step up in energy in this one. I feel like this could've potentially led the album campaign but saying that On My Own really was the perfect choice. It's great to see Claire belt out an up tempo track though.


Ruins:

I forget how much I like this song until I listen to it. I do feel that this album is starting to feel a little samey though.


My Wildest Dreams:

The title track of the album, this is quite nice. Is this the Diane Warren penned track? It feels a prefect fit for Claire.

Posted by: Paradise Lost 5th April 2022, 03:10 AM

For Now:

It's ok but I'm afraid it's all starting to sound to familiar. I do enjoy it but it's one I wouldn't go back to much.


Don't Leave Me In This Love Alone:

Ah so I looked, this is the Diane Warren song. I remember that now. It certainly sounds like it is, not sure why I got confused. Anyway back on topic, it's nice enough without being spectacular.


Forever Ends With You:

I'm really enjoying this, mainly because I think it's a change of pace on the album. It's not something I'd expect from Claire.


If I Didn't Have You:

I actually like this one, I know it goes against the majority here. It feels different enough to not get lost in the ballad heavy parts of the album.

That 'whistling Dixie' line though...


My Heart Is Heading Home (This Christmas):

I really like this one, it's very subtle but in a good way. I think what makes me feel connected to this song is the mention of Manhattan and the fact I was in New York for Christmas 2018, the time this song was released.



Overall I like the album but I do feel it could've been a little shorter maybe 11-12 with the three deluxe tracks replacing songs from the standard. It is a little ballad heavy at time which make it drag a little but I do enjoy this album every time I listen to it. I'm also so glad we finally got a Claire solo album after wanting one for so long.

Thanks for setting this up James and to everyone who commented. I've really enjoyed reading through all the posts.

Posted by: Hazelnuts 6th April 2022, 04:56 AM

Nice to read your opinions as well PL

Posted by: Paradise Lost 6th April 2022, 11:04 AM

Thanks Hazelnuts.

Posted by: Yobnedor 8th May 2022, 10:33 PM

Totally giving this forum the credit as “On My Own” hit 1 million streams this weekend

Claire, you’re welcome.

Posted by: Hazelnuts 9th May 2022, 04:50 AM

Good for her and go us

Posted by: Feel_The_Fever 9th May 2022, 01:09 PM

Thats very decent for Claire and im sure she will be very happy with that.

Posted by: ___∆___ 9th April 2024, 04:07 PM

‘Wildest Dreams’ is coming on pink vinyl

https://stripjointglasgow.co.uk/product/claire-richards-wildest-dreams-pink-vinyl-signed-print/

Posted by: Yobnedor 9th April 2024, 05:10 PM

I think … I might pass

Posted by: -Jay- 9th April 2024, 05:35 PM

What with it being the superior Claire album, of course I’ll be getting this

Posted by: -Jay- 9th April 2024, 05:50 PM

Interestingly it’s released through Demon / Fascination, same as Euphoria. My Wildest Dreams was originally released through Sony.

HMV link is live now! https://hmv.com/store/music/vinyl/my-wildest-dreams-(signed-edition)

Posted by: spiceboy 9th April 2024, 05:51 PM

sold out already! I'm not a fan of the album but I think that looks gorgeous!

Posted by: Padamic Tension 9th April 2024, 06:12 PM

Didn't expect her to re visit the album again but nice to see, im not invested enough in her solo career to buy another version but great to see its sold out, i wonder how many was available.

Posted by: ___∆___ 9th April 2024, 10:18 PM

Great that it sold out - the indie store Strip Joint were the first to list it so people grabbed it from there I guess.

Just ordered from HMV and used a referral code so got it for £19.99

Posted by: Padamic Tension 9th April 2024, 11:09 PM

Thats a very decent price for a new version of a vinyl, if more prices were like that vinyl sales would climb even faster than they are currently growing.

Posted by: pippa 15th April 2024, 11:45 PM

With over 2 months until the release and it sold out there is enough time to have more available.

Posted by: -Jay- 16th April 2024, 10:08 AM

It’s only that one independent store that’s run out of stock, probably because they were the first to go live with it, so some fans pounced on it. It’s available via HMV and Amazon and has been in stock ever since they went up for preorder last week.

Posted by: Padamic Tension 16th April 2024, 07:41 PM

I cant see that a huge amount would be produced as i cant see their been big demand for it, i wouldn't be surprised if its only about 1000 available.

Posted by: Lee_his_cheeks 17th April 2024, 03:24 PM

That’s a nice version. Though it seems a bit random?

Posted by: Padamic Tension 17th April 2024, 05:44 PM

Ya def felt it was a random release and not one I even slightly expected.

Posted by: Lee_his_cheeks 20th April 2024, 06:54 AM

Good for her but I doubt if it was profitable?

Posted by: Yobnedor 21st April 2024, 11:14 AM

I’ll wait til it goes on sale x