Consumer Guide Album

Gilbert O'Sullivan: Himself [MAM, 1972]
I admit I ignored this until the advent of the genius single "Alone Again (Naturally)," which I like best for the way its tossed-off structure matches its casual, crucial equation of filial and romantic affection. But I insist I was always intrigued by the idea of a singer-songwriter managed by the same godfather who brings us Tom Jones and Englebert Humperdinck. He's uneven, and he may turn into a major annoyance, but before that happens we ought to acknowledge that he's also a complete original. Persona: insecure lower middle-class Irishman with a screw loose. Message: it's normal to have a screw loose. Rhymes: "Nothing Rhymed." B