Ordinary Heroes

by Stephen Thomas ErlewineOrdinary Heroes marks a significant shift for Howard Jones, who abandons almost every synthesized element that characterized his music from Human's Lib on, in favor of smooth, litely soulful groove. It’s his quietest album ever, stealing that distinction from 1998’s People, and the lack of snazzy synths shifts focus directly upon Jones’ songs, which trade easy pop melodies for a measure of introspection, a trade-off that doesn’t necessarily work in Jones’ favor. He’s best when there’s a dose of sprightliness within his music, which he comes close to approximating on “Collective Heartbeat” and “Even If I Don’t Say,” but here reflection comes at the expense of both tempo and hooks — an intentional move, to make it all the better to ruminate on Jones’ quiet reflections and slowly churning grooves. He sustains this mood throughout Ordinary Heroes and for many listeners who have stayed with him throughout the past quarter-decade, it will be easy to slip inside his world, but those less dedicated will be grasping for a hook to hold onto.