Richard Hawley has spent most of his career as a supporting player, a guitarist for hire in such diverse outfits as All Saints, Robbie Williams and Pulp. Now he's found his niche - as Sheffield's very own answer to Roy Orbison. A working-class hero and an unashamed romantic, Hawley writes gorgeously old-fashioned songs that mix crooning vocals with tender tales of nostalgia that could move a grown man to tears. Named after a meeting place for Sheffield lovers, Coles Corner doesn't break any new ground - but long-time Hawley fans won't complain, given that the quality control is as high as ever. For newcomers, meanwhile, it's as good a place as any to get acquainted with England's most undervalued singer-songwriter.
