Recording information: West Heath Studios, London.
One of the more inspiring stories in 2000s pop music was the recovery of Edwyn Collins from a terrible stroke and a series of infections that almost killed him. The hyper-literate, always brilliant songwriter had to learn how to speak and sing all over again and his body was wracked enough that he'd never play guitar the same way again. He did come back, though, and began recording, producing, and living a full life again. His strength and that of his partner Grace Maxwell are profiled in the documentary film The Possibilities Are Endless, the title of which is taken from one of the three things he was able to say when he first began speaking again. (The other two were "yes" and "no.") The soundtrack to the film was put together by Collins and two of his longtime collaborators, Sebastian Lewsley and Carwyn Ellis. It mainly features the introspective side of Collins' music, with many songs taken from his subtle 2007 album Home Again (his last recordings made before the stroke), the affecting "Down the Line" from the post-stroke Understated, and one, "I've Got It Bad," from his classic Gorgeous George album. It also features some quiet, soundtracky instrumentals, a pleasant ballad written and sung by Collins' son William, and a few new songs that show how much energy and bite his music still has. "Don't Shilly Shally" is a fiery update of an overlooked solo single from 1987, and "Two Steps Back" has all the direct punch that much of his post-stroke music has delivered. Both the film and this album give a picture of the stalwart help Collins has had along the road to recovery; they also give a clue to the unstoppable spirit and drive of the man himself. ~ Tim Sendra
