The last time I listened to a whole Boy George album (and enjoyed it) was way back in the early 1990s when he released The Martyr Mantras under the name Jesus Loves You.

I can’t remember what it was that inspired me to listen to Cool Karaoke Volume 1 but I’m glad I gave it the time and attention it deserves.

The album is mellow, mature, melancholic and surprisingly moving.

Boy George’s voice sounds richer and more emotive than ever; there’s something so soothing about this collection of songs.

The album even has a fantastically 80’s-sounding duet with Kim Wilde, which feels like a gift to those of us who were around back then!

Listen to the album below: