Without anything new from Steve Ellis, he would be in danger of becoming one of our lost treasures, so the appearance of 'Best of Days' allows long time fans the chance to hear him in the here and now and also people less familiar with his work over the years to listen to one of our most outstanding blue eyed soul singers.
Those not familiar with Steve's recorded work only need to be told that he is the voice behind Love Affair's chart topping version of 'Everlasting Love' and just one listen to the vocal performance by a 17 year old Steve on that hit will remind you of what a powerful and mature voice he had at such a tender age. The good news is that in 2008, that voice is in fine fettle on this album and is as powerful as it ever was and effortlessly soars on the fourteen tracks contained within.
The album opener is a touching gentle rework of 'Everlasting Love' handled with such care and delicacy that it doesn't fall into the trap of just a rehash of Steve's signature… more »

Without anything new from Steve Ellis, he would be in danger of becoming one of our lost treasures, so the appearance of 'Best of Days' allows long time fans the chance to hear him in the here and now and also people less familiar with his work over the years to listen to one of our most outstanding blue eyed soul singers.
Those not familiar with Steve's recorded work only need to be told that he is the voice behind Love Affair's chart topping version of 'Everlasting Love' and just one listen to the vocal performance by a 17 year old Steve on that hit will remind you of what a powerful and mature voice he had at such a tender age. The good news is that in 2008, that voice is in fine fettle on this album and is as powerful as it ever was and effortlessly soars on the fourteen tracks contained within.
The album opener is a touching gentle rework of 'Everlasting Love' handled with such care and delicacy that it doesn't fall into the trap of just a rehash of Steve's signature song. Steve also covers Paul Weller's 'Brand New Start' and makes a fine job of it too. 'Step Inside' is a funky soul number written by Steve and ex Love Affair guitar player Rex Brayley and the song structure provides the ideal opportunity for him to belt out his vocal lines like one would expect him to! 'Turn To Stone' is a mid paced ballad that once again shows off Steve's vocal prowess to great effect. 'El Doomo' which was first recorded by Steve's later band 'Ellis' is a worthy addition here, stark and powerful and very moving song too.
All of the tracks on this, Steve's first album for over thirty years, are thoroughly enjoyable and whilst it's not breaking new ground it does showcase Mr Ellis doing what this type of singer does best and reminds you that there are not really any newer blue-eyed soul vocalists out there now who could carry on the tradition which forty years ago was putting 'our boys' at the top of the charts the world over!!
Thankfully too, Steve is out and about on the gig circuit too, ably backed up by The New Amen Corner and is well worth seeing live.