True Faith

I confess I was shocked when I first heard this - the electronic treatment to George's legendary vocal threw me and, after waiting so long for new material, I was somewhat disappointed... BUT after a fair few listens, it really took hold of me and as an expression of the addiction that he has very publicly experienced, it is extraordinarily evocative. It is so different from the New Order track that it seems almost ridiculous to compare them - and that is its strength, it hasn't simply copied the original, but brought a whole new, reflective take to a song that for many was one of the pop highlights of the 1980s. The band themselves have given their blessing and, like George Michael, are donating all their proceeds from its sales to Comic Relief. So, if you like George's previous work - or if you're a new recruit to his millions of fans, help support a good cause and give this a chance. Also hear it properly on a decent system (radio play doesn't do justice to its beautiful detail) and check out the instrumental, which is lovely. Those - like me - who have grown up listening to and loving the natural qualities of George's soulful singing voice may still yearn for the release of a version with a 'clean' vocal, removing the autotune. Hopefully the man, who's famous for his charitable endeavours, will heed calls for him to release just such a track. In the meantime, welcome back George, it's been too long...