Leeds, West Yorkshire, England is not the first locale that springs to mind when the subject of rock music crops up. The political punk/New Wave band Gang of Four formed while at Leeds University. And of course there’s the classic artifact recorded at Leeds by four West London blokes called The Who. Leeds can now boast of a one-man power-popper named Simon Bristoll, who records under the moniker “Captain Wilberforce.” Everyone Loves A Villain is the Captain’s second release and, though it hardly compares to Ballad Of Todd Rundgren, a sophomore effort by an earlier power-pop hermit, it’s a sophisticated production by a guy who writes, sings, and plays practically every instrument except drums. Bristoll’s graceful vocals are reminiscent of Glenn Tilbrook, and Tilbrook’s songwriting (late-period Squeeze) hovers over practically every track. Like Tilbrook, Bristoll knows melody and has a refreshing appreciation for songwriting craft. The Squeeze influence can best be heard on the title track, as well as “Champagne and Roses,” and “A Different Sea.” “Don’t Get Me Started” is the strongest tune on the disc, and its choppy power chords bring to mind Husker Du. The opener, “No Strings Or Ties,” strangely mimics the acoustic guitar intro from the Moody Blues “The Question,” but gets hampered by some unnecessary techno-pop keyboards. There’s nothing really to dislike about Everyone Loves A Villain (other than the messy cover sleeve). Bristoll has done his pop homework, and he obviously and sincerely hopes to enter the celebrated league of gentlemen that includes Davies, Lowe, Costello…and Tilbrook. The Captain’s got the melody, and he can wail on guitar when necessary. He just needs to steer his vessel a bit further from his influences, add some soul, bolster the harmonies, and he’ll be reckoning with the pop heavyweights.
--Peter Kurtz [June 7, 2008]
