Craig and Charlie are the utter embodiment of the one hit wonder. Their brilliantly catchy "I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)" was first released as a single in 1988, floundered, then got rediscovered in 1993. When the early film with Johnny Depp, Benny & Joon, used the song in a critical scene, "500 Miles" took off and reached the Top 5. Sadly, it was the best outing the brothers ever did, and "Sunshine on Leith" remains the best known of their several albums.

The Proclaimers do have a few things going for them. As part of the Folk-Punk flourish in the late 80's (think of The Alarm, among others), stomping pup songs with easily sung choruses and a somewhat political bent (on "Sunshine," "Cap In Hand") enjoyed a brief run. The best songs here ("500 Miles," "I'm On My Way") have that infectious quality, and there is also an emotional quality to the home and hearth songs ("Sean" "Then I Met You") that is appealing. Craig and Charlie also share the mythical type of harmonizing only siblings can share. (And, it seems, the rivalry that only siblings can have, The Proclaimers have a mere 7 albums in 20 years with breakups littering the times between releases.)

However, the album starts to get a bit samey after awhile, as the brothers aren't the best songwriters. Steve Earle's My Old Friend The Blues kind of leaps out from the pack. If you're really hot just for "500 Miles," you're probably just as well off getting Their Best Of.

Artists come and go and the Proclaimers certainly came and went, but in their wake they left this one treasure. This is beyond question one of the finest and coherent pop albums of all time with music, lyrics and harmonies that will deepen upon multiple listenings and which I expect will stand the test of time. Don't bother with any of their other albums but add this to your collection and just enjoy. I still can't believe that two boys from Fife can produce something so beautiful!

Though I couldn't get into any of their other albums, this one is truly great with songs that are timeless.

How do you resist these two Scots. I'm crazy about their lyrics, their music, their accents. "500 Miles" is the coolest love song with all the emotion of the best love ballad set to a head-banging beat. Rockin', beer-slamming rhythms with clearly Celtic, folky, earthy overtones.

If you like tight Harmony.. a sense of humor a UK/Rockabilly sort of style.. you will love this! Acoustic and bright these twin brothers make have a passionate push in the voice and a unique musical style that is irresistible...! And that Scottish accent.. Fascinating! Think Shrek!
I got the album for "500 miles".. and have to say.. the rest of the album is even better than the hit. A favorite.. "Oh Jean" funny and charming.. don't miss it! Take this CD on your next road trip and listen to the bouncing sounds as you drive.. The trip will fly !! I just love it!