Debut studio album from Damien Rice! O was the Irish singer-songwriter's first solo effort following the dissolution of his band Juniper. His experience put him off from working with a major label, so the sessions were funded partially by a $500 loan from his own father. Rice produced the meticulously-crafted record himself, replete with string arrangements, djembe, Gregorian chants and more, and initially self-released it on CD before independent label Vector stepped in to offer wider distribution. I first became acquainted with Rice's music via "The Blower's Daughter" and "Cold Water," which were both utilized to great effect in the film Closer. Despite being a critical and commercial success, the album has never been available on wax, and patient fans are now being rewarded with this great-sounding vinyl pressing with audio remastered by Kevin Gray. Also includes "Older Chests," "Volcano," "Delicate" and more.

• 180g double vinyl pressing
• remastered by Kevin Gray
• deluxe gatefold jacket
• printed inner sleeves
• limited edition
• music label: Rhino 2018

reviewed by plain tiger 05/2018