REVIEWS

• Review from Nicole Volpicelli (Circle Magazine - Spring 2006)
  
  Such a "fortunate man" to have such mysterious appeal, Paul Winn is a three piece band of Aussies, with poetic vibes such as "together we were just a reflection of the world/ often beautiful but never perfect" ("Reflection"). No one can deny that these musicians also maintain an air of Thoreau in their lyrics. This is songwriting at its best; Winn's song "Taylor" reminds me of a track off Jack Johnson's debut CD, the same song about the same introspect of the love that peaked years ago. The same message is scrawled at the end of the song, "Too busy wishing for tomorrow/ as the world and time spins away". 
  
  Paul Winn has captured the elegance of poetry through music. The always ominous, and sometimes pessimistic words used in their songs are adjacent to Jim Carroll's poetic technique. In fact, these words could be spoken out of the same mouth. 
  
  
• PAUL WINN - Album Review (Sept 2004)
  
  Paul Winn is an artist I admire. Not content to follow chart trends or mimic other artists, he is more concerned with writing songs in his own style and doing it rather well indeed. If I had to describe Paul's sound, think Sting meets Jeff Buckley - with a bit of Dave Mathews thrown in for good measure. Although a talented guitarist, Paul's voice is really what sets him apart from others. He sings with passion and a sincerity that is quite rare and very engaging.
  
  Paul has written a strong album with standout tracks being the uplifting 'Fortunate Man' and the haunting ballads 'Reflection' and 'Sinking Down'. It's refreshing to hear that what I believe to be the most important element in popular music - i.e. melody - never gives way to fancy production, self-indulgent arrangements or muso's showing off. This album simply delivers great songs performed honestly and beautifully. 
  
  If you want an alternative to the Alex Lloyd's and Pete Murray's of the current Aussie music scene I encourage you to check out this debut album from an artist that you will definitely be hearing more from.
  
  
  Anton Hagop
  Record Producer / Engineer
  
  
• Review by Todd Beemis (www.indie-music.com)
  
  For those of you who've had a rough day -- crabby partner, awful boss, commute from hell -- and who don't do drugs, may I make a suggestion for an instant calmer? 
  
  It's Paul Winn and his three-piece band, creators and purveyors of quiet, straightforward, gorgeous R&B. Popping in their eponymous CD is a heck of a lot easier than boiling water for chamomile tea -- and you don't run the risk of scalding yourself if you drop the album on your lap.
  
  As a CD reviewer, I almost feel a primeval urge to cite a band's influences. Happily, Paul Winn and company have done that for me -- to some great length --on their website. However, I'd add to their list the following: Bob Welch; Blue Nile; Rick Astley and Robbie Williams (at his least bombastic).
  
  Winn and his band are virtuosos of the "brushes on high hat, jazzy piano, smooth as silk, unadorned vocals" style. I particularly enjoyed "Sinking Down" and "Full Moon Night" for the almost ethereal mood they create. Fans of Winn's voice in particular will appreciate "Taylor," which showcases it to perfection. Listeners needing a bit more rollick than reserve will enjoy the pep of "Leave it to Fate."
  
  The fact that nearly every song on the CD is quiet and relaxing requires no apologies. God knows, there are days when only this kind of music will do. I can picture rainy Sunday mornings in Seattle and warm Bondi days in a cabana by the beach when this CD would be equally appropriate. But for those about to rock, I warn you: this ain't your record.
  
  This is a record with the self-confidence to swear off a producer's bells and whistles and to lovingly embrace songsmithing and, above all, melody. Had enough of reverb, headbanging and hearing how life's so hard for a pimp? Paul Winn's your man.