Born in Salonika, Greece in 1953, singer/guitarist George Papavgeris discovered folk music in Oxford in the early 70s, but only became a songwriter in recent years. Since then, his songs have been covered by the likes of Andy Irvine, Roy Bailey and Martyn Wyndham-Read. Listening to his seventh album Lifes Eyes, its easy to understand why. The deeply affecting Regrets was written following the death of Papavgeris father, but will resonate powerfully with anyone whos lost a loved one and besides that, its melody is simply beautiful, bringing to mind the best work of Leonard Cohen. The waltz-tempo Harbour Lights, inspired by the singers former home in Thessaloniki, is a classic in the making, with a universal appeal that goes far beyond the specificity of its origin. Rush Hour is another highlight, sung as a round-style trio of harmony and countermelody with labelmates Vicki Swan and Jonny Dyer, who contribute an impressive variety of backing instruments elsewhere on the album: Swan plays double bass, flute and Scottish smallpipes, all very well indeed, while Dyer wields the guitar, accordion and keyboards with equal aplomb and grace.
Eight/Ten
