CD: Lee Ryan: Lee Ryan (2005)

As a member of Blue, Lee Ryan was a part of one of the biggest acts of his era. His solo debut single 'Army of Lovers' is a good indication of the stripped-back sound of his first self-titled album. Eschewing easy U.S. R&B references for more classic soul influences from Marvin Gaye, Maxwell and Luther Vandross, and mingling this with acoustic instrumentation has produced a strong, unique sound that you can instantly imagine yourself humming along to. Accessible pop values are used to great effect, his elegant but candid delivery takes the material straight to the heart. 12 total tracks. Brightside Recordings. 2005.