A retrospective on his early solo success...
08 · 09 · 2025
Richard Hawley has had a remarkable career, initially emerging as a member of the Britpop band Longpigs, followed by a period with Pulp, another influential group from his hometown of Sheffield. Although his first two solo albums, 'Late Night Final' and 'Lowedges', hinted at potential, it was 2005's 'Coles Corner' that truly established him as a solo artist. This exceptional album remains fresh even after two decades, featuring many of his most cherished singles and lesser-known tracks. Named after a popular area in Sheffield, this project holds special meaning for him and is now receiving thorough anniversary recognition.
From the first notes of the title track, it's evident that this is a remarkable record. It develops beautifully, possessing a haunting quality that is propelled by his powerful voice and storytelling ability, making it easy to visualize his lyrics. 'Just Like The Rain', one of the album's most lively songs, is another standout, merging his melancholic narrative with vibrancy. Its simplicity is strikingly beautiful.
Throughout the eleven tracks, there are no missteps, achieving an ideal blend of Hawley’s influences and distinctive sound that pays homage to legends like Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison, and Springsteen, all infused with a unique Sheffield essence. 'Hotel Room' explores themes of desperation and regret but exhibits such tenderness and charm that it's hard to resist, even in its more introspective moments.
'The Ocean' stands out as one of Hawley’s signature songs, interlacing elements of psychedelic rock, which he would explore further on 'Standing at The Sky's Edge'; it builds into an impressive epic. 'Born Under A Bad Sign' may not receive as much recognition as some of Hawley’s beloved tracks, but it highlights his talents as both a vocalist and guitarist, qualities that often recede in his broader sound yet shine through on this album.
'Coles Corner' still sounds as vibrant today as when it was first released in 2005, setting the stage for the career Hawley has built, which earned him his first Mercury nomination and a devoted fanbase. While he has revisited stories of Sheffield effectively in the years since, most recently in 2024’s outstanding ‘In This City They Call You Love’, this album remains a pinnacle in his continually progressing career. It offers numerous delights, from clear standout moments to hidden treasures, making it an album that can be listened to and enjoyed repeatedly for years.
Richard Hawley will perform 'Coles Corner' in its entirety this Autumn, including a special concert at London's Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre on September 26th // tickets.
Words: Chris Connor
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Richard Hawley has had an unpredictable career, initially beginning as a member of the Britpop band Longpigs, and then spending time with Pulp, another giant of the genre.