People
	(London/LP/Cassette/CD)
	Paul Davis

Already the major Irish success story of 1988, Hothouse Flowers have been topping Ireland's singles and album charts, scooping Best Group award at the Irish equivalent of the BPI Awards, and seem poised to usurp U2's lofty position. The quality of this debut LP suggests that their success is likely to be repeated on this side of the Irish Sea, and beyond. Their overall sound is distinctly transatlantic in flavour and Clive Langer and Alan Winstanley's production is dominated by the voice of Liam O'Maonlai, a lonesome plaintive yowl, the lyrics drawled out in a sprawling, stream of consciousness-type delivery, which doffs a reverent cap to Van Morrison. Apart from the excellent single Don't Go, listen out for the full-force exuberance of the gospel sounds of It'll Be Easier In The Morning, the R&B stomp of Feet On The Ground, and the evocative Wild West style saga, The Ballad Of Katie, our heroes striding manfully over the horizon into the darkness on the edge of Bruce Springsteen Country.