Album Review

Heroes is the fifth album released by War Child, since their first offering back in 1995.

The Charity approached 15 ultimate icons from past and present musical history, and requested that they selected a song from their back catalogue. They were then asked to choose a contemporary artist to record the track and create their own interpretation of the song. What has resulted is a creative reworking of classic tracks, approved and trusted by the original legends.

The 15 artists supporting the album also including Beck, Bob Dylan, U2, and David Bowie have a combined global album sales of over 1.4bn.

The Kooks rendition of Victoria is excellent. A little faster, unfortunately with a lot less diction, it is an upbeat singalong of a track. With Luke Pritchards immature warbling and youthful essence, this version Victoria is serious competition for the The Kinks original.

Paul McCartney, becoming a regular on War Childs albums having featured on Help in 1995, chose his classic Live And Let Die to be reworked by Duffy in her typical sultry, dreamy style. Her powerful and croaky vocals are perfect for this track, although shes clearly made it her own with soulful, gospelly harmonies. Her signature voice rules.

Straight To Hell by Lily Allen (originally of The Clash fame) can only be described as bubblegum pop. Lilys sugar-sweet collaboration is the last thing youd expect The Clash to choose, but strangely, it works.

War Child's albums have won various awards, including Brits as well as from Q and NME.

For those who have not had the pleasure of taking-in the original tracks, the CD makes for an excellent collection in itself. Each artist has added their own special touch to each track.. Other songs include Stevie Wonder's `Superstition', covered by Estelle, and Blondie's 'Call Me', covered by Franz Ferdinand.