shellcool

Gareth's speech was so fluent. I thought it was a good interview and glad it focussed on his speech rather than Jordan for a change. Gareth's personality definitely came across more than ever before and though it is not new to us, it obviously will be to others. A shame there wasn't time to talk about his music more but at least it got a mention at the end.

Thanks for that Hazzy. More of the same again. Wish she had said something about Gareth's music but good to see his name around anyway.

Thanks Hazel. Just what was needed.

Very clever Mums The Word. My National Trust Card has expired but I might be persuaded to renew it if there was another framed pic

I'm not sure that the tide really is turning. I think it's mainly me, and it's only one opinion. I'd just like to add that I think it's great that Gareth's keeping himself so fit and toned. I just didn't want that to detract from his music, if you see what I mean. I think today, that it is kind of fashionable to be scruffy/unkempt and maybe not even that good looking. I think that if Gareth had been around in the 70's when I was a teenager, he'd have been idolised for years. I still think he can be successful in this day and age, but I think it has to be handled carefully by his management.

You're so right Tom

If 19 do want to see what the reaction is to both of the pics. then I have to say that I think the first topless shot is a bit of a con. I just showed it to someome who hadn't seen Gareth for a long time and they couldn't quite believe it was actually him. The lighting is such that it hides his face a bit. The second pic. shows much less of a change, but a bit more maturity, and still the Gareth we all know and love, with his personality showing through. Who is the other one? I suppose if I'm honest, I don't like the first pic. I think it sends out the wrong message and is even a bit deceptive. Still as others have already said, it's only a calendar.

Thanks mrdreamboat and Mums The Word. You've both made me feel better with your reassuring comments.Yes it's alright for Gareth to show his body from time to time and he will still be taken seriously. Afterall, look at David Beckham! His footballing skills are discussed as much as his looks. Even so, I do think this time round, it would be better if there was less emphasis on Gareth's looks, and more on his music. For instance, the album cover, for me should not be a posed shot of Gareth, and no booklet of pictures of Gareth inside. It has to be Gareth doing nothing in particular, but not looking at the camera. The video too for the first single will be all important. I have to admit that I remember 'Beautful' for the song, not the video, but then I don't get the music channels.

Been thinking about this some more..... It has been suggested that the current 'look' of Gareth will make some people take notice of him who perhaps hadn't done so before, or even those who had, it might remind them how lovely he was and still is! but what about that huge category of people who are not influenced by appearance? Aren't these some of the people who are buying the James Blunt album in shedloads? It might even be the case, that for Gareth to really connect with some people, he must be seen not to really care two hoots about his appearance, but just be his natural gorgeous self. I think I'm saying, that perhaps he can't be seen to appear even slightly vain. To me the first calendar pic. screams...'Look at me, I'm a hunk' This time round, he's got to appeal to that category of people which he missed last time round. After all, whose steps do we want him to folow in? Peter Andre or James Blunt? It's a difficult one. He's got to be himself.

I don't get the chance to come on here much these days, but had to comment on this gorgeous pic. Have to agree with what's been said by others about it being a more natural shot and showing us the Gareth we know and love. I don't think however, that Gareth needs to sell his new album with his body, so I am glad the calendar launch will not coincide with the album release. I believe his music will speak for itself. I hope that it IS his music that will make people notice him again. Hope no one gets mad at me for saying what I think. It is only my humble opinion.

I know I'm well out of date with this post but I had to comment. I found this a fascinating listen. I quite like the different instrumentation. It makes the song sound more up to date and trendy. Tyler Jame's voice sounds strained and weird. I think the contrast between his and Gareth's voice shows off the quality and smoothness of Gareth's vocals. My 11 year old son just had a listen, and at first said he preferred Tyler Jame's voice but then when Gareth came on he suddenly said 'No' Gareth is much better.......more....rhythmical.....' I thought that was pretty spot on actually. It's all together more together! Any comparison can't fail to, at the very least, get Gareth noticed. Thanks a lot Snowdrop.

Hi! I've been away for ages but I came for a peek and was stunned with this picture of Gareth. I really like his hair like like this...it suits him and shows off his best facial features which are too numerous to mention. His physique's not looking bad either.....