Understated is that rarity, a positive break-up album confirming an emotional rebirth: “Back to life, back to hope... I can't stay another day with you,” he exults in “Too Bad (That's Sad)”, one of a clutch of Motown stompers.
The more painful aspects get the Southern soul treatment in “Baby Jean”, where he counts the blessings of music in helping ease the torment. “Understated” is a quieter reflection. But it's ironic that soul music dominates, given Collins' lack of its most crucial element: a commanding vocal presence.
Download: Too Bad (That's Sad); It's a Reason; Forsooth
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies