CD reviews: Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds

The irony in the title of Noel Gallagher's latest is probably intended - he is nothing if not in touch with his influences - but there are half a dozen knowing winks too many here, both in word and melody.

The greatest influence is still his former band, and hence Oasis fans will probably find comfort in the familiar.

Opening track Riverman with its fat bed of acoustic guitars, and the grooving The Right Stuff, are the best tracks of the 14 on the deluxe edition of the album, but it is a largely forgettable effort made weaker by Gallagher's unimaginative lyrics.

• Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds. Chasing Yesterday. Sour Mash Records.

• Two and a half stars (out of five)

Single download: In The Heat Of The Moment
For those who like: Oasis, Stereophonics

- Jeff Harford