Euroflake in Silverlake

Stephen Hague produced the major-label debut of Irishman Gregory Gray, titled Euroflake in Silverlake. Gray plays both keyboards and guitar in addition to having written all of the record's lyrics. David Rhodes, best known for his work in Peter Gabriel's band, adds guitar. Most of Euroflake in Silverlake shimmers with the same layered Europop perfected by the Pet Shop Boys, beginning with the wry "The Pope Does Not Smoke Dope." Gray's vocals alternate between a deadpan delivery, as on the opener, to a high register that is similar to Art Garfunkel on several other tracks, like the dreamy "Coming off Drugs." Other highlights include "I'm Not Paranoid," a chugging dance rhythm with synth horns and "Tough, Baffling, Road," a midtempo, fingersnapping shuffle. Gray makes an engaging debut with music that is infectious and lyrics that often elicit a chuckle.