Tunnel Into Summer

I see quite an array of opinions about this album, ranging from Wayne's Klein's astute take on this fine album to one reviewer who dismissed this as "a snooze" and didn't think Rew's songwriting was compelling. Huh? While this might not quite be a 5 star album in my opinion (I'd be happy to give it 4.5), there are plenty of songs that sparkle and excite. As Wayne noted, Kimberley Rew is a skilled guitar player with an engaging vocal style and these songs have hooks galore. In my book that definitely makes him a compelling singer-songwriter worth raving about.I first heard Kimberley Rew back in the early 1980s when I latched onto a vinyl copy of his classic EP/LP "The Bible of Bop." For me, that was one of the greatest records of the 1980s. I was thrilled to finally find a copy of that on CD, but I neglected to do any further online digging to see what he had done after his stint with Katrina and the Waves. Imagine my delight to find out that he was releasing solo albums again. This is the first post-Bible of Bop album that I've heard, but I'm so impressed by this one that I plan to order more of his recent efforts. Strong stuff indeed.This album also includes guest appearances by Rew's fellow ex-Soft Boy members Robyn Hitchcock and Andy Metcalfe, plus backing vocals by Glenn Tilbrook of Squeeze on two songs. But the real star here is Kimberley Rew himself, whether gleefully singing these strong songs or belting out a turbo-charged instrumental such as the album's stellar closing track, "Alice Klaar." This one's for real!

I'm a fan of Kim since when Katrina and the Waves were just the waves and he sang onmany of those early songs on the "Shock Horror" ep. His guitar playing, I thought wasthe star of the show after that. "Alice Klaar" is one of the coolest guitar instumental andone of my all tme favorites and the reason I went back and bought this cd. (I had it before)

Kimberly Rew album lacks the rock and roll spirit. His vocals are terrible. Quite disappointed after listening to his records with Katrina and the Waves.

Anyone who's spent time with Katrina and the Waves' great albums (the two Attic LPs, "Shock Horror," or their self-titled major label debut) knows that Rew is the king of succinct, rocking anglo-pop. "Tunnel. . ." is an amazing return: great melodies, clever lyrics, and typically superb guitar work. He's not a power-belter vocally, but his cockney-coated voice has great charisma and charm. I don't know where he's been, but it's great to have him back.

It seemed like a good pedigree.. Kimberly Rew...guitar player with the Soft Boys and Katrina and the Waves; the CD had a sunny, power-poppy title... "Tunnel Into Summer"...I thought I couldn't go wrong! Well,I'm afraid the old adage..."never judge a book..." applies in the negative here. Let me qualify something first...Rew is a good musician, with a crisp, ringing guitar tone and amiable chord chemistry, BUT... a compelling songwriter/singer he is NOT! With the impressive roster of guest artists on the album and considering who he has worked with in the past, it's a shame this material just kind of...lays there and fails to inspire repeat listenings.

My favorite album of 2000, that's sure right now. Great songs in small arrangements - I'm really impressed by the terrific guitars and the smart voice. As said in the review before: great melodies and clever lyrics, some funny (Little Ray of Sunshine) and some sentimental (Honey is that Love). Even more likable that Kimberley doesn't seem to take it all too serious. To quote "If there's an Answer tell me now": If there's something better than this... stop wasting my time, and show me where to sign. I'd sign too, Mr Rew !