Spike has done Frankie Miller and his fans proud.

Having been something of a relatively recent convert to the Quireboys and the lovable rogue that is Spike, as well as being a long time fan of the subject, I was very interested to hear this album – a self proclaimed labour of love to pay tribute to Frankie Miller, the legendary Scottish singer/song-writer who was struck down in 1994 by a brain haemorrhage and who has spent the last twenty years recovering, although he may never be at a level where he can perform again. Miller was apparently a huge influence on Spike, as he has been to many other performers, and this album is a collection of twelve songs by Miller which capture the essence of his style and have been recorded with his blessing.

I really can't imagine anyone other than Spike being able to give these songs the delivery they deserve. I loved 'I'm Losing You' – very reminiscent of the Rolling Stones 'Fool To Cry' or Rod Stewart's 'Ballad of Georgie', while 'Intensive Care' is straight off a Quireboys album. It's so obvious, on this track especially, that Spike owes a hell of a lot to Miller. His duet with Bonnie Tyler on 'Fortune' is just a glorious rendition, harking back to Miller's own performances with her in the past; an emotional rollercoaster for her, I'm sure. 'Cheap Hotel' is one of the few upbeat numbers on the album and is a welcome break from the moody and melancholy, but overall this is a very moving album, none more so than the closing track 'Bottle Of Whisky' – poignant lyrics indeed.

If it weren't for Spike and this group of Miller's friends, these songs may never have seen the light of day. Featuring an awe-inspiring list of performers like Simon Kirke, Ian Hunter, Luke Morley, Andy Fraser, Ronnie Wood and Tyler, Spike has done Frankie Miller and his fans proud.

Sue Ashcroft