THIS FINE ALBUM NOW OUT OF PRINT IN THE U.S.A. - BUT AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD AT iTUNES & MANY OTHER FINE WEBSITES. Michael Shelley's debut album was originally released on the BIG DEAL label, which was know for releasing fine Power Pop records. While "Half Empty" was accepted by the power pop crowd, it was also embraced by a wide array of press, radio & music fans around the world, as it went on to be released in Europe & Japan. Recorded quickly and with basic live arrangements this album has been called almost every genre in the book: Power Pop, Country/Pop, Singer/Songwriter, Folk & Alt. Country. This inability to be categorized is a trait that has continued with Michael's subsequent albums. THE PRESS SAYS: Think With Your Heart" is one of the best pop songs of the 90's. One of the top 5 records of 1997. If you liked Fountains Of Wayne, you will absolutely love this record. Great little slice of life stories. I guarantee you it's overflowing with wit and charm." Bill Holmes, Pop Culture Press "...like a cross between Jonathan Richman at his most earnest and Nick Lowe at his most tuneful." Dan Epstein, L.A. Weekly "...sounds like Nick Lowe fronting The Replacements....both its tone and lasting impression are one of complete and utter sincerity." (4 stars) Sid Griffin Q. Making sparkling guitar pop from true despair is a gift possessed by very few (although many try and fail) , but Michael Shelley has managed to make an album of consistently engaging material with little to inspire him other tham the painful memories of broken romance..... Immaculate. Nigel Williamson, Uncut. "A non stop joy. Every track is special...the sort of album you'll treasure for a lifetime." Terry Hermon, Bucket Full Of Brains "Fraught with style and sarcasm. Evoking images of Loudon Wainwright one moment, the Ramones the next. One of the "top ten records you should have been listening to in 1997" Buzzweekly "Everything a great pop album should have. Infectious hooks suck you in and the melodies keep you there. This quirky album is beautiful in its simplicity." The Source "His greatest strength lies in simple, sturdy hooks that sound familiar but are ultimately new. Shelley's lyrics are full of details and descriptions." CMJ "His ability to write songs with a certain amount of originality, makes this album a standout." Rock Love 3 & 1/2 stars Tower Pulse "Brooding and full of atmosphere...a celebration of songwriting talent..." Claudio Sossi, Shake It Up "Rejection never sounded so inviting. classic stuff." John Larson, Amplifier "Good as it goes. Shelley matches his lyrics and music well, maximizing the catchiness potential." lies "This guy's got a good, solid songwriting style, and he's intelligent not to muddy his tunes with busy arrangements. He's good, with real talent, and some damn good tunes." Baby Sue "a la Matthew Sweet and Velet Crush...a warm collection of lovingly crafted tunes. Much recommended!" Hootch "Half Empty" wryly celebrates love and loss with tongue placed firmly in cheek and Telecaster turned up to 11. "Sparkling, celebratory pop" Mojo "When Michael Shelley's puppy dog vocals click against his poppy melodies and bemused lyrics about lost love he sounds like Nick Lowe fronting The Replacements" - **** Q Magazine "A fine collection of Beach Boys whimsy, country-rock tales and good old fashioned rock n roll shot through with sarcastic wit" The List "Full of winning pop moments...Shelley's influences shine through but frankly Nick Lowe would be proud to have written pure pop of the calibre of Think With Your Heart and Rollercoaster" The Herald (UK)