Hypersonic Missiles (Amazon Signed Version)

I feel almost a little mean giving Hypersonic Missiles four stars, given how enjoyable it is and the sheer energy and creativity that just seems to burst from the speakers the moment you press play. I bought this album based on seeing Sam and his band perform the title track on Graham Norton's chat show and was impressed with the lyrics and Fender's delivery. The whole album, which I have listened to twice today, hasn't disappointed and it's great to hear a new artist with so much talent and character. Lyrically, Sam is more than decent. His lyrics have real substance and he's not frightened to get stuck into the issues of the day. Where the album falls down slightly, it's that it's perhaps a little one-dimensional. Considering the many dozens of albums I've heard this year that have a lot more musical creativity than Sam's debut, I can't really give this album full marks. However, it's a very impressive, exciting first album and I think the best is yet to come from Fender.One last thought - pleasingly, every single song on this album is written by Sam. This is great to see from a young singer-songwriter on a debut album, where often you'll check the songwriting credits and even for artists such as Jake Bugg you'll find that there are plenty of co-writes or songs written by other songwriters. Fender also does all of his own guitar work too, so I'll more than forgive the slight lack of musical adventure because there's talent, energy, heart and bags of promise here.I could also argue with some of his lyrics too (I'm not keen on him repeating the false equivalency about there being "lies on both sides" of the leave/remain campaigns, for example), but I'm going to swallow it without too much complaint as this is Sam speaking his own truth, which essentially is what being an artist is all about and, in the main, I think he's bang on about a lot of his social and political commentary.No, Hypersonic Missiles as a whole is not perfect, but this album has enough in it to keep me interested in Fender's career and contains some very pleasing moments. The sax solo in "You're Not The Only One", for example; unexpected and really quite thrilling. I can understand why some enthusiastic fans are giving this album the full five stars, but, for me, it falls a little short of greatness and I believe (and certainly hope) that the best is yet to come from young Mr. Fender.

Sam Fender is the pulse of 2019. He is the vortex of our thoughts; politically, emotionally and charged to each and everyone of us. His lyrics tell the story of our age and Long live Hypersonic Missiles.....can't wait for the tour!

Bought this for my 9year olds birthday, haven’t given it to him yet. He absolutely loves Sam Fender. So now have to get him a CD player! Great album, great musician. Strong political lyrics about real life happenings. Best album, not a bad song

Fantastic album, the fact it was signed was an absolute bonus! Sent directly to the recipient as part of Amazon Prime, arrived when it should have and is brilliant quality.

Very good debut by the geordie lad

Tracked my CD to my door and pounced on the driver for my parcel - and not dissapointed.Great job Sam Fender and thank you for signed copy Amazon!

Love this album by Sam FenderOn repeatSigned as well, thanks Amazon

Just when you think that you have heard everything music has to offer, along comes a young singer,songwriter that can send shivers through you with a voice that stirs the soul.Utterly Brilliant