Olly Murs
In Case You Didn't Know
Release Date: Nov 25, 2011
Genre(s): Pop/Rock
Record label: Epic
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Album Review: In Case You Didn't Know by Olly Murs
Fairly Good, Based on 4 Critics
Based on rating 8/10
In 2010, Olly Murs did the unthinkable, and went from being runner-up on the sixth series of the U.K. X-Factor to legitimate recording artist and entertainment personality. The cheeky Essex lad found massive chart success with his eponymous debut album, breaking away from the show that first sparked his popularity. Murs' Everyman charm -- complete with boyish tunes and TopShop threads -- paved the way for other entertainment opportunities, including his stint as co-host on the popular Xtra Factor program.
Based on rating 3/5
The press release affixed to the second album from 2009 X Factor runner-up Olly Murs begins: "I'm never going to think, 'Right, I've made it now. ' Even the greats like Paul McCartney never think they can't do better. " You've got to love his cockiness, especially when there's so little basis for it: In Case You Didn't Know is an unapologetically lightweight product by a chappie born to be labelled "cheeky", and that's about the size of it.
Based on rating 2/5
Murs seems to be pop's answer to Jamie Oliver: a bit bland but unfailingly affable and a massive hit with the mums. ("I'm OK" even has the happy chappy line: "I jumped on my Vespa, ride through the gloom".) Unlike Oliver, though, he's dishing up mostly pabulum: this second album is characterised by cheesy, soul-flavoured pop, the sort that's nice enough soundtracking a KFC advert, but too much and its very inoffensiveness begins to offend. There's zip, though, to single "Heart Skips a Beat", a nagging ska track featuring Brit rap duo Rizzle Kicks, suggesting perhaps Murs just needs a little help from his friends.
Opinion: Very Good
Revels in its approachable, unashamed pop goodness. Al Fox 2011 In Case You Didn’t Know is a peculiar choice of title for Olly Murs at a time when his profile is at its highest. But for those unfamiliar with the X Factor graduate turned presenter, a brief masterclass: on the surface, he’s an inoffensive Jack the Lad with added nan appeal, enjoying the ride in a rare display of post-X Factor success.
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