Chris Rea - Chris Rea

In March of 1982, English singer/guitarist Chris Rea released his fourth studio album. The self-titled Chris Rea charted at number 52 in the UK. To celebrate its thirtieth anniversary this year, we shall give this one a listen today.


Side one begins with "Loving You", the first single from the album. It went to number 88 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and number 65 on the UK charts. The bass groove and piano sets a great mood for this song about a powerful attraction.

"If You Choose to Go" is a mid-tempo tune about facing crossroads in life. Still it warns that there is no guarantee that the grass is always greener down the road.

"Guitar Street" features a driving drumbeat which pushes this song about determination and dreams.

Things slow down a bit for the haunting "Do You Still Dream?".

The second single was "Every Beat of My Heart"; it charted at number 39 in the Netherlands. Rea breaks out the mandolin for this gentle ballad. I believe I am picking up some harp accompaniment in the background too.

Side two opens with "Goodbye Little Columbus", a sad song about a parting of ways.

"One Sweet Tender Touch”, with its country elements, served as the B-side to the second single. Rick Asprey provides the saxophone solo here.

"Do It For Your Love" has an easy-listening R&B groove to it with a mid-tempo danceable beat to boot.

On "Just Want to Be with You", the singer expresses his desire to share one’s company.

"Runaway" tells the tale of a guy on the road, trying to escape the past only to realize that memories are not so easy to leave behind.

Closing out the album is "When You Know Your Love Has Died", a song about facing up to the fact that a relationship has ended. The piano here gives it a bit of a reverent feel.

Chris Rea is a strong collection of tunes with great melodies and relatable themes. If you are a fan of music by Eric Clapton, Bonnie Raitt or Dire Straits, this is one you might want to check out if you can.