![[Image]](../../Images/mexicosm.jpeg)
More Info: www.innuendorocks.com
Verdict (Rating): An interesting album for existing Innuendo fans (80%)
Innuendo's last album, 'Three', seen me getting really excited about the band. Their brand of semi-acoustic rock seem to hit all the right notes for me. For the follow up to that album, the band have let the acoustic side of their nature take a front seat and released 'an acoustic collection' of songs called 'Raining In Mexico'.
From the first moment I put this album on it felt comfortable - a bit like an old favorite sweater. That feeling was probably enhanced by the fact that this album features several songs from the 'Three' album. In fact, further investigation reveals that the album is actually split in half between reworking of songs from their previous albums and new songs. But that feeling wasn't just down to the familiarity of those songs, I think is more down the fact that Innuendo simply 'click' with me.
The album starts of well, with the catchy mid-tempo acoustic rock of 'Little Less Grey'. The title track that follows has a 'song along' quality. There is an even catchier chorus on 'Point Of No Return' where it is impossible to sit still when listening to it - you'll be drumming you fingers or tapping your feet - I guarantee it. 'The Call' shows a little more variation in tempo within the song, but it is still another impressive slice of acoustic-based rock. By now I'm sure you're getting the picture. Other highlights include the nostalgia fuelled 'Ain't Like It Used To Be', the bluesy 'Up To You', 'Song On The Radio' (which had already impressed me on the 'Three' album) and 'The Real Me' which slows the tempo nicely just before the chorus to give it more impact.
The quality is pretty much maintained throughout the album. The fact that the songs are all acoustic based does give them a common identity and all credit to Innuendo for keeping the whole affair a 'little less gray'. This collection isn't the most obvious follow up to their previous album and Innuendo are clearly a band that intend to follow their hearts when it comes to deciding what to do next. If you're an existing fan, then this is yet another one for your collection. However, if you're new to the band I'd still recommend checking out 'Three' first. The new songs on here show that Innuendo haven't lost their touch and a new 'plugged-in' album is something that I'm looking forward to.
