I actually said Gary should have more leads. I was just saying how much I would like to hear Rob's full version of 8 Letters at some point. On Oasis's last album there was an alternative version of one of the tracks as a bonus song with Noel singing it. Perhaps a future deluxe release if not a B-side? You are right though - it's not commercial enough to be a single. The only way I can see it being released is fool people into thinking there are loads of other ballads but seeing how well the album is doing there is no need. It would be 'I'd Wait For Life' all over again - too slow and not radio friendly enough to make an impact. Singles should be Kidz, SOS and possibly Happy Now or Wait. All of those tracks have been mentioned as possible second singles so it would appear they are the only ones being considered for future release.

 

If the album was different I'd agree that Gary should have more leads. However, apart from the rather dreary Eight Letters ... and the little bit he has on The Flood, his voice doesn't suit as lead on any of the other songs on Progress.

 

For Gary's self-worth I seriously hope they don't release Eight Letters as it will do an 'IWFL' and plummet. Especially as The Flood has already been the hit it has and assuming either SOS or Kidz will do pretty much as good as it.

 

I really like (most) of this album. Believe it or not ... unless ballads are as excellent as Patience and RTW ... I have no time for them ... I'd much rather have upbeat stuff. I know Gary went into the studio with the original backing tracks ... but I bet if you played those tracks now ... then what you hear on Progress would be nothing like them. In short ... I really don't think Gary has had too much to do with this album. He has however, done the genius thing, in bringing Rob back on board. As much as Mark looks cute with Rob, and is his best mate, it is Gary Barlow who has been intrinsic in getting him to join the band. I've not liked Rob's solo stuff (apart from a few singles) for me ... there is something a bit whiny about his voice ... but with Rob on board ... for me ... this is the best Take That album.

 

I don't care who has more stage time ... I won't be seeing them live anyway (even if I'd had tickets ... I'll be on the Norfolk Broads for two weeks when the ones up north are on!) But when I'm playing the cd in the car ... I won't be skipping as many tracks as I do on The Circus ... which if I'm honest ... I don't even listen to anymore. Take That can usually bring a dreary song to life on stage (as witnessed with the awful 'What Is Love' when performed live on TC Tour) luckily with Progress ... the album is just great stand-alone.

 

Kath

Edited December 19, 201014 yr by Kathyp