Even after going on record re: my frustration with record labels that re-release albums with new tracks or other bonus content, asking fans to open their wallets again for much of the same material, I still couldn’t resist ponying up for the Deluxe Edition of Duffy’s Rockferry.
The expanded package adds a whopping seven new tunes, nearly doubling the original ten. Plus, it’s currently available only as an import, making the two-disc set that much more attractive. So that’s how I justified buying the Welsh singer’s debut for the second time. (And that’s why such industry madness continues, folks. Because their dastardly schemes pay dividends.)
Rockferry was one of the best albums of 2008, and the UK’s biggest seller, moving nearly 1.7 million copies. Here, it’s sold something over 600K, but with Duffy gearing up for the Grammy Awards with three nominations, including Best New Artist, I suspect she’ll soon be adding more to her Stateside tally this winter.
Though U.S. radio can’t seem to move beyond “Mercy,” three other singles from the original Rockferry have charted in the UK, including the title track, “Warwick Avenue,” and “Stepping Stone.” And now, “Rain On Your Parade,” a new one from the Deluxe Edition, marks Duffy’s fifth entry there.
Written by Duffy and Steve Booker, “Rain On Your Parade” is sort of a post-“Mercy” (the hit was also penned by the pair). Done with begging, Duffy’s gotten rid of the guy, and nothing’s gonna make her take him back. The tension-filled strings make “Rain” sound like a James Bond theme. Have a listen via the video, directed by the prolific (and talented) Sophie Muller.
The six other new songs on Rockferry – Deluxe Edition are worth several spins, including the psychedelic soul of “Stop,” and a cover of “Please Stay,” written by Burt Bacharach and originally recorded by The Drifters and The Cryin’ Shames. But it’s another Duffy-Booker co-write, “Breaking My Own Heart,” that’s my new favorite.
Hear clips of Duffy’s new tunes at Amazon UK, and purchase Rockferry – Deluxe Edition there or within our borders via Amazon.
And if anyone wants my pre-owned copy of the pre-deluxe Rockferry, it’s on me.
