aaamusic | On 08, May 2011

It’s unfortunate that it’s actually the single itself that ends up letting this record down. The ‘knowingly clever’ title is let down by similarly flawed, rambling lyrics, and an overall messy sound. Lack of structure only works when it sounds planned; this just sounds less stream of consciousness, more self-indulgent rant. Musically, the lack of variety is similarly grating. Surprisingly though, accompanying tracks The Tempest and She Walks In Beauty are actually not bad. She Walks In Beauty is definitely the superior track here – it’s dynamic and compelling, in other words exactly what The Not so Great Gatsby should’ve been. The Tempest is so-so, starting off well, but losing its way a little while in by letting itself get a little bit overcrowded. It’s solid enough, though. Franklin is not untalented, but if this is anything to go by, he needs to develop a bit.

Author: Katharine Sparks