When you think of Lee Ryan, what pops into the mind? Unfortunate comments about elephants in the aftermath of 9/11? Entreaties to everyone to "be a bit schitz"? Denials of ghastly gay rumours? Reports of stripping for Elton John and David Furnish's civil union reception?
The poor ex-Blue boy has become tabloid fodder par excellence, but lest it be forgotten, unlike some of the Celebrity Big Brother contestants, Lee Ryan is actually known for something. He sings.
When I Think Of You, from his eponymous debut solo record, showcases that voice - soulful, inoffensive, made for pop. He had nothing to do with writing it. Devoid of anything resembling a killer hook, the airless production hardly helps. And does he really wake up at "six in the morning when the clock rings"? When I think of Lee, after listening to this, I think throwaway, forgettable, Magic FM pop.
