1999 Robbie Williams: She's The One/It's Only Us

A double A side, 'She's The One' was originally written and recorded by World Party in 1997. On this, Williams takes the unusual step of not only borrowing writer Karl Wallinger's song and arrangement, but of also copying his own style of vocal. But whereas Wallinger's husky strain comes naturally, Williams' attempt at heartfelt means his trademark cheeky persona and charm is banished to the dug out for the duration to leave him sounding like Neil Young on bad news day. And while none of this detracts from the quality of the song underneath, this 'She's The One' is more forgery than bona fide cover and nobody here are earning their biscuits. Flip side 'It's Only Us' is livelier, but its in your face quick thrill rush of The Cars meet Green Day soon wears thin when the quick thrill rush wears off after it's parted from its original FIFA 2000 video game soundtrack setting. Everso quickly in fact.