Friends & Lovers

He has been hailed by some critics as the greatest guitarist of his generation, Bernard Butler, best known as the first guitarist with Suede, until his departure in 1994. This is Butler's second solo album, a more well-rounded and overall stronger effort than its predecessor. The songwriting, production, and playing are all stronger on here. 'Friends And Lovers' replaces the lush, string-drenched sound of 'People Move On' with louder, riff-based arrangements. Some of the best songs are "Friends And Lovers", "I'd Do It Again If I Could", "Cocoon", "You Must Go On", and "Has Your Mind Gone Away". This is an album that needs and deserves the time to grow on you.