Featured Artist: The Brilliant Inventions
CD Title: Have
You Changed Musicians:
Guitars and Vocals: Eliot Bronson and Josh Lamkin; Upright Bass and Percussion:
Will Robertson Review: Acoustic guitars
lightly begin “Isn’t It Worth It,” a song reminding us to bring things into
focus on ourselves. Eliot takes the place as lead vocalist, with a voice that is
level and matches the music in every turn. The guitars are backed by the
upright bass and percussion, creating a smoothly simple tune. “This world will
cut you deep/ And leave a nasty scar/ Isn’t it worth it to remember who you
are;” these lyrics resound for anyone who has ever felt like they didn’t know
themselves anymore. The title
song of the album, “Have You Changed,” was written by Josh, not to be a breakup
song, but a letting go song. Beginning with a chorus of “uh ohs” that continue
appearing throughout the song, Josh takes the lead vocals and constructs a
scenario in which a love decided they wanted something different. In the tone
of two people who haven’t spoken in a long while, the song is full of
questions. Besides asking, “Have you changed?” I think perhaps the most
intimate and difficult questions asked in the song are, “In time did someone take
my place/ Are you alone in your own space/ Did you ever forget my face/ Do I
want to know?” It is sad and hopeful in the same instance, creating an
unforgettable twist to which many people can relate. “There
Goes My Heart” introduces a robust piano playing Josh, again taking the lead
vocals in a song that he says might be his favorite. The beginning of the song
has the slight intonations of frustration and irritation that comes with your
heart working against your head. “I’m not going to get burned/ Will you read
this and cry/ I won’t be around to see it/ Goodbye;” towards the end of the
song, determination replaces frustration, these emotions cleverly backed by an
excellent combination of piano, acoustic guitar, and drums. “If You
Want It” is an incredibly fun and upbeat song, vocally led by Eliot and
including a variety of background music, including shakers and hand claps. It
gives new meaning to one person’s bad luck being another person’s good fortune.
The portrayal of misfortune taken into a positive light (“If we ever get home again/
I’ll give you everything I am”) is something we can all appreciate. The
acoustic guitars and light percussion introduce “How Do You Fall.” Singing of
being lost and stuck in the confusions of love, Eliot gently explores lyrics
with a general theme of aimless floating with no clear destination. “How do I
know when/ I found the right thing?” is a common question. The guitar in this
song creates a feeling of simplicity. “Could’ve
Been You” begins with a tune immediately recognized as regretful and “I told
you so” sounding. The acoustic guitars accompanied by the bass really perfect the
music behind lyrics like, “If you’d only loved me too/ Now I found someone to
put my heart into/ It could’ve been you.” This song is so relatable; I feel
like we all have someone in mind when it plays. “Lights You Up” is fairly simple, covering a range of
emotions that light a person up and make them visibly alive, be it love or
sadness. I particularly like Eliot and Josh’s harmony in this song, and the
effect the piano has of boldening particular lyrics. “You Don’t
Have To Be Strong” consists of guitars and the upright bass for a simple but
beautifully perfect combination. The song gives the air of sweet relief to a
tired, self-reliant girl “Holding up/ More than your half of the world.” It is
the kind of song that every woman wants to hear and creates a feeling of
comfort and sweetness: “Just lay your head/ Down on my chest/ It’s okay if you’re
broken/ Like me.” Upbeat,
ironically hopeful “What About Jennifer” is trying to fend off the despair and
loneliness of a breakup. “Jennifer” and “Caroline” and “Anyone who isn’t her”
create a note of slight desperation to avoid the hurt. Josh’s honesty in a
situation we’ve all been in and willingness to try anything new to cover the
scars of the old create a song that is heartening despite the sad subject
matter. “Tell Her
I’m Gone” is fast moving, funny, and keeps the feet tapping and the hands
clapping. A lamer title might have been “Love Games I Don’t Want to Play Anymore.”
It’s a hilarious escape song, using the guitars, various percussion instruments,
and Eliot’s Uncontrollable Laughter to create a speedy getaway. “Restless”
could be the mantra for the average teenager’s life. It could fit well as the theme
song to a spontaneous cross country road trip. However you feel about this
song, it is certainly a relaxing, sing-along type of song. No one
likes to wait around to see if someone else thinks they are right or not. You
either are or you aren’t, right? “I Don’t Wanna Wait” expresses these
frustrations in an upbeat number about “fairy tales that have never come true”
and waiting for “you to finally see.” It was interesting to see the rather positive
spin The Brilliant Inventions put on a rather hurtful situation. By far my
favorite song on the album, “We Don’t Have The Words” is honest, beautiful, and
close to home. The fact that this song is simply an acoustic guitar, Eliot’s
main vocals, and Josh’s harmonizing backup… just makes it all the more amazing.
The imagery in the song puts you on the road to Atlanta, and the grace with which
the lyrics and music flow instantly make the song one to listen to over and
over. The message of the song, that sometimes you just know things, even if
there aren’t words to describe them is a simple yet powerful thought. “Would You
Believe” ends the album questioning the ability to have hope in times when
there is nothing left to hope for. The piano and guitar combination in this song
creates beauty. The piano itself combined with such a sense of hope reminded me
a little of “Imagine” by John Lennon. Tracks: Isn’t
It Worth It, Have You Changed, There Goes My Heart, If You Want It, How Do You
Fall, Could’ve Been You, Lights You Up, You Don’t Have To Be Strong, What About
Jennifer, Tell Her I’m Gone, Restless, I Don’t Wanna Wait, We Don’t Have the
Words, Would You Believe Purchase "Have You Changed" Here:
Year: 2009
Style: Singer/Songwriter
I have honestly been listening to this cd almost nonstop since I got it. It is
full of raw emotion, sentimental lyrics, heartfelt voices, and simple yet
passionate music that all combine to create an album that is easily replayed
and enjoyed by anyone and everyone.
Artist's Website: http://www. thebrilliantinventions.com
Reviewed by: Megan Morian
Featured Artist: Kirk McMillan
CD Title: American Dreamworld
Year: 2008
Style: Singer/Songwriter
Musicians: Vocals: Kirk McMillan; Guitars: Ryan Waters, Oliver Wood, Clay Cook, Ben Holst, Martin Kearns, Kirk McMillan; Bass: David Labruyere, Greg Lee, Robert Henson; Percussion: Colin Agnew; Keyboards: Martin Kearns; Drums: Gerry Hansen, Marlon Patton; Background Vocals: Susan Bennett, Leah Calvert, Brit Dean, Thomas W. Dean, Chanda McKnight, Ryan Rulon
Review:
Kirk McMillan’s debut album “American Dreamworld” has been described as “New York 60’s rock with a conscience,” but I would call it so much more than that. The proud, patriotic, and strikingly positive and upbeat album reminded me of a softer, more Americana-based Jon Bon Jovi. It is impressive to say the least, playing on America’s freedoms and loves. Listening, I felt like I should have it in the cd player while driving down a country road on a beautiful day.
“Mind of America” begins the album by calling to attention those of us who are living life in a daze and questioning where our minds are, exactly. The band behind Kirk’s catchy vocals provides a good beat that keeps your feet tapping and your hands clapping. “You got the power to light the fire/ Yeah this could be a revolution,” is a call for change among the monotony that sometimes pervades daily life.
“One Million Nights” was inspired by Kirk’s background attending The Citadel, and in memorial of those lost on September 11th. It is at once sad and hopeful at the same time, bringing to mind a military funeral with the lines, “I had a dream about a boy in a box/ Draped in stripes and stars.” The song’s imagery and strength inspired a patriotic feeling and gave rise to the image of our soldiers, past and present, fighting for our freedoms.
The drums and percussion introduce “New Day Rises” with a light beat that almost contradicts lyrics of sameness. Kirk’s voice is strong and powerful, bringing forth lines that sound almost daring and challenging. The guitars, drums, and keyboard towards the end of this song create a rousing, exciting outro.
“Sugar Sugar” instantly encourages a head bob/hip swivel action. The song, about a lover, is pretty hot and brings in another element of American culture: passionate love. It should be a hit on a country/western dance floor; that guitar in the background just creates an irresistible urge to move.
“Corporate Cross,” in a unique twist I’ve never seen before, uses Christian imagery to describe the working world. “ One more day turning water to wine/ Sacrifice my soul for the bottom line/ Sticks and stones flesh and bone/ Sitting upon the cubicle throne.” Lyrics like these beg a religious comparison between climbing the corporate ladder to save your life, and hanging on the cross to save everyone else’s.
“American Dream World” is hopeful and sweet, and tells the story of two people who have different ideas of the America they want. At the same time, they both want the same American Dream World with each other in it. Also functioning as the title of the album, this song questions the American dream and what it means to us individually.
Starting off slowly, “Killin’ Time” is a simple song about making love and generally living life. Mildly erotic, the song has a slow, smooth beat, and of course, Kirk’s relaxing vocals.
“What Goes On” quickly establishes itself with a fast background and might be another enjoyable tune for dancing. The lyrics are fairly simple and encourage the band to take the forefront in a lot of the song. “Baby be good, do what you should/ You know it will be alright;” lines like these are for singing along and having a good time.
“Put Up, Shut Up” is one of my favorite songs on the album for its sassiness and Kirk’s fun attitude that can easily be heard in his voice. It is brazen, bold, and unlike anything else on the album, and for that, I give it two thumbs up for enjoyable originality.
“Game Over” is deceivingly titled. I felt like the game being over might denote the oncoming of a depressing song, but I was pleasantly surprised at the happy note that this album ended on. “I don’t let go I hold on tight/ The joy in the fear takes me to the other side;” I feel like this is an excellent leave off for a future album.
Tracks:
Mind of America, One Million Nights, New Day Rises, Sugar Sugar,
Corporate Cross, American Dream World, Killin’ Time, What Goes On, Put
Up, Shut Up, Game Over
Artist's Website: http://www. kirkmcmillan.com
Reviewed by: Megan Morian
Featured Artist: Connor Christian
Cd Title: 90 Proof Lullabies
Year: 2009
Style: Country/Americana
Musicians: Connor Christian (vocal, guitar, keys, harmonica), Joe Abramson (bass, vocals), Shawn Thacker (drums, vocals), Dan Emmett (fiddle, keys, mandolin, vocals), Nick Edelstein (keys, guitar, vocals)
Review:
Connor Christian, the quintessential performer and self-acclaimed troubadour, has an ear for sound and his new album, 90 Proof Lullabies, is both creative and consistent in its execution. All of his songs have a solid countrified (or countryfried as one reviewer put it) sound appropriate for many a bar setting.
"Sunday Suit" is a straightforward country song and probably the most catchy of the songs on the album with its dancing piano tunes and occasional instrument solo. It's very honkey tonk in nature.
"Midnight Moon" a slow country has a good chorus but it's the slow guitar strums that seems to stroll on throughout the song which makes it listenable.
"It's alright" is very reminiscent of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. This song switches gears from the previous two and is more soulful and less country. The song does get poppy near the end.
"Waiting For Princess" allows Connor Christian to really showcase his songwriting skills with a simple yet elegant, piano introduction that shifts into a good crooner showcase for Christian.
"Chipping Away" is a straight-up Irish Drinking Ballad complete with a chorus of shouting men that inspires anyone to drink in the middle of the day. By this point in the CD, you realize this is a finely crafted collection that showcases all kind of influences and sounds.
"Evangeline" is another country break-up song on top of a Nashville country sounding fiddle playing. It's a very danceable tune.
My favorite song off of the CD is actually cover but it's true to the song while adding a lot of Connor Christian flavor too. "One Toke Over The Line" originally by Brewer And Shipley, manages to interweave multiple harmonies over a song about getting high in a railway station. It's a quirky gem that you might find yourself whistling without even knowing it.
Like Connor Christian, this CD covers a lot of land, acoustically speaking. The most striking thing about it is the number of influences packed into just one CD but maintained completely without seams. Every song is Connor's, be it an irish jig or duet harmony.
Tracks: Sunday Suit, Midnight Moon, It's Alright, Waiting for Princess, Chipping Away, Evangeline, Let Ya Slide, Winter, Time By You, One Toke Over The Line, Good Morning Sunshine, 3 Times, Groundhog, Meet My Angel
Artist Website: http://connorchristian.com
Review By: Caleb Childers
Featured Artist: Nathan Angelo
CD Title: Through Playing Me
Year: 2006
Style: Singer/Songwriter
Musicians: Nathan Angelo (Vocals and piano), Ben Phillips (Drums and percussion), Aaron Sands (Bass), Gary Burnette (Acoustic and electric guitars), James Gregory (Bass), Stephen Gause (Background vocals)
Review:
“Through Playing Me” is Nathan’s first album and has enjoyed much popularity so far. Comparable to a more upbeat John Mayer, his wonderfully personable songs can be called classic Americana. This unique set of songs broadcasts feelings of love, life, and enjoyment of the world. The fact that Nathan is playing the piano himself behind all of his songs makes them all the more exciting and listenable. The music is relaxing, hopeful, and can be appreciated by music lovers of all kinds.
Cheery “September 22nd” is an excellent introduction to this album. The song’s positive lyrics, championing the appreciation of having enough to sing about on this “normal day” by simply having “blood flowing through my veins, air to breathe, and life to live,” really bring home the things we should be thinking about as we wake up each day. The message that simply being alive is enough to achieve anything comes through loud and clear.
“Through Playing Me” begins with Nathan and the piano. The song is a simple plea to give up a life of falsities to go back to what he once was. Defeat sounds through his voice in the lyrics “What can I say/ When the words just won’t come out right/ What can I do/ When every step leads me to a lie/ And I’m through playing me.” Incredibly relatable and strong, Nathan’s voice brings the song to life.
Possibly the most popular song on the album, the quirky, honest “Love Sucks” makes all who hear it smile… because we’ve all been there. From “It was perfect, or so it seemed” to “When the hands you hope to hold/ Throw you out in the cold night/ And you’ve become a stranger,” we know that nothing every goes as planned, especially love. The piano behind these lyrics really provides the perfect background; it is upbeat and sentimental at the same time, as it should be when you are talking about love.
A guitar/piano combo introduces “Dreams” for an ethereal sound befitting the title. The amount of hope in this song, hope for the unexpected and impossible, makes it really heart-warming and passionate. “To change the world/ To seize the day/ Dreams don’t have to fade away.” This is what you want to listen to when you feel like giving up.
“Escape” will really touch those who feel they need a pause button on life. The plea to get away from the daily life piling up, even for a moment, is voiced perfectly by Nathan. I felt that the music matched my overly busy life, and a need for “Somewhere I can go/ Somewhere I can run/ Somewhere I can go to escape my mind.” There is a note of desperation and urgency that lets you know that this escape is paramount.
“Only love, love/ Can get you high and so excited…” Who can disagree with that? “Mary Poppins’ Birds” seems to be about Nathan smiling and shrugging off of anyone else’s advice while glorifying the simple pleasures of love and all it can bring. Incredibly upbeat and happy, he hits the high notes and shows off his range of voice in this smile-inducing song.
“Leigh” takes the “misery loves company” stigma and explains it in the terms of a beautiful, rich, yet miserable girl. Dare to fall in love with her perfect, “dazzling” exterior, and you too will fall prey to the misery. The message in this song is to be happy with what you have… don’t let the sparkle fool you.
“The Road Home” brings a slower melody into play on the album and reminisces. “So hold tight to memories, glimpses of eternity;” these lyrics tell us that though the past might be a time long gone, it will be with us forever. It is slightly sadder but a comforting song at the same time.
“Tell me twilight will I always be alone?” With a definitely sadder start on the piano, “Twilight” brings us questions about life. Nathan’s words and music always match seamlessly. His doleful voice questions the night, bringing in some hopeful chords during the chorus.
An ode by definition is a poem meant to be sung. “Ode to Her” is beautifully written and a love song in the truest sense. It is apologetic, honest, and passionate. Between the moving piano music and Nathan’s lyrics about stepping up and “being a better man,” the song is truly a wonderful listen.
With a few first lines of plays on words, “They Ain’t Far Behind” has an older-sounding flair to it. It is a little quirky and fairly upbeat. There’s always someone on your heels to take up the reigns when you are ready to get out. Once again, Nathan has found a way to creatively talk about life and getting through it.
The purity of Nathan Angelo’s voice singing the intro to “Someday Soon” is only a prelude to the honesty and hope through the rest of the song. “I will love you more than the ocean loves the rain/ I will be your strength, even in the pain.” Lyrics like these make a lovesick heart rejoice and make cynics believe once more in what it is to be in love. You feel the raw emotion in every word Nathan sings.
“Til A Further Date” ends the album on a wistful, sorrowful note. “He’s been gone/ She’s away/ Now they’re moving on/ Til a further date.” Nathan’s voice powerfully contends with sadness and the words hit home for anyone who has ever had to move on from something they’ve loved. “Is this how it ends?/ My best friend/ Is this how it ends?” takes the song into its last chorus, and the album to its final sweet notes.
Tracks: September 22nd, Through Playing Me, Love Sucks, Dreams, Escape, Mary Poppins’ Birds, Leigh, The Road Home, Twilight, Ode to Her, They Ain’t Far Behind, Someday Soon, Til A Further Date
Artist's Website: http://www.nathanangelo.com
Reviewed by: Megan Morian
Featured Artist: Brian Wiltsey
CD Title: Lucky Ones
Year: 2008
Style: Singer/Songwriter
Musicians: Brian Wiltsey (vocals, acoustic and electric guitars, harmonica), Clay Cook (keys, bass), Mark Cobb (drums, percussion), Sean McIntyre (bass on ‘Head Over Heels’)
Review:
“Lucky Ones” is Brian’s fourth album, and is a world of difference from his previous three. “On past albums I’ve tried to write those Top 40 hits, and tried to stick with the pop/rock vein, tried to write catchy choruses and go for that radio hit thing. On this CD I kind of strayed away from all that. There’s no real “radio single” kind of songs on this album; not as many catchy choruses… but it was something I had to make.” It is a rather sad album, but full of emotion and feelings you know are coming straight from the soul. But rejoice, music fans, because this album is perfect for anytime listening and will move your heart with its vitality and thought-provoking lyrics.
The
acoustic guitar introduces the first song on the album, “Lucky Ones,”
and the beat is slow and catchy. I felt the Tom Petty influence here.
Brian’s smooth voice sings about working with what you’ve been dealt
but wanting to become like the lucky ones who seem to get everything so
easily. I particularly enjoyed the small piano solo mid-way through
that I felt was the simple essence of the song. His backing by the
piano and drums creates a song with depth and a toe tapping melody that
you will find yourself replaying again and again. “Another
Day” begins with an intro letting you know it’s going to be sad. “If I
could get some sleep tonight, it would be the first time in three days;
my eyes are not as heavy as my heart. This battle in my head keeps me
awake.” It is, very simply, an “it’s really over, isn’t it?” song. It
really hits home for the war-torn hearts that know exactly what he is
singing about. A classic guitar, joined eventually by keys and
harmonica, helps to keep the pain behind the song at the forefront. The
introduction to “Drown” is a little faster and a little more upbeat
than its predecessor “Another Day.” Brian’s voice is still slow and
sad, singing soulful lyrics about missing someone: “I don’t want to
drown myself in sorrow, it’s been dark since you went away; I want to
forget about this tomorrow, but it’s not the same, no it’s not the
same. You’re not here, no you’re not here with me…” This song contains
unique instances in which Brian’s voice echoes and creates an all-over
effect for the listener. Slow and deep begins “Won’t Fall
Down,” a self-reflective song with elements of hope laced into the key
strokes on the piano. The volume level of Brian’s voice changes
throughout this song, creating some serious emotion and enabling the
listener to easily imagine the feelings crossing his face as he sings.
“I won’t fall down, I’ll make sure that my feet touch the ground.”
There are dramatic touches and creative melodic changes, especially
towards the middle and end of this song, making it a really great
listen. Accompanied only by the guitar, soft vocals
introduce “What We Keep Inside.” This song talks about the importance
not of what is being said, but what is kept guarded behind lies, maybe
for the sake of someone’s feelings. Simple and courageous, it is a song
to which everyone can relate. I found the intro to
“Tonight” to be very memorable; I skipped through others to first find
that guitar slowly strumming into thoughtful lyrics: “This might sound
a little crazy… I may seem out of line. But I think my luck’s beginning
to heal the scars. You’re a ghostly work of art.” Brian sings sweetly
about the heart and its ups and downs, and also about the lasting
effects of love. “I’ll wake up from this dream to see you
lying next to me; I’ve been wishing that for days.” Like “Another Day,”
“When I’m Gone” is heart-wrenching and can only be sung by someone who
has truly been through the pain. Brian really pours his heart out, kept
company by a single guitar. Powerful songs like this are how music was
meant to be. A familiar melodic chorus of “Ooh’s” known to
any “80s babies” and beyond begins Brian Wiltsey’s cover of Tears for
Fears’ “Head Over Heels.” I happily sang along and enjoyed the
simplified version Brian created of this classic, backed only by
“ahhing” vocals, keys, and the guitar. I “nah nah nah nah nahed” my way
to the end and into the next song. “Love Is” began with a
guitar/piano combo entrance that reminded me slightly of Coldplay.
Everyone has their own personal feelings of what love is… according to
Brian, it is simply “what you make it.” I felt that the song was
empowering and hopeful. Ending the album is “The Killer,”
another song in which I felt the Tom Petty influence Brian said he
involved in this CD. He uses part of the preceding song, “Love Is,”
which I thought was an interesting twist; I have never seen it done on
an album before. It ends with a lyrics to keep you thinking: “Any way
you look at it, love is real… sometimes too real.” Tracks:
Lucky Ones, Another Day, Drown, Won’t Fall Down, What We Keep Inside,
Tonight, When I’m Gone, Head Over Heels, Love Is, The Killer
Artist's Website: http://www.brianwiltsey.com
Reviewed by: Megan Morian
Featured Artist: Marshall Ruffin
CD Title: Morning Glory
Year: 2009
Style: Singer/Songwriter
Musicians: Marshall Ruffin (Vocals & Guitar), Dennis Baraw (Bass), Alan Marcha (Drums), Steve Dance (Keys)
Review:
I saw Marshall Ruffin perform during the CD Release Party for this album, “Morning Glory.” Reviving an old blues sound and combining it with guitars and an electric grunge sound, Ruffin has created something unique that can only be described as American tradition and having spontaneous flavor.
Marshall’s lyrics have emotion and power. He is not afraid to use every range of his voice to accompany his guitar, the drums, and the upright bass that play with him. “The Day” provides a slow, strong beat that you can feel in your bones. You can tell that this album is all about the music for Marshall Ruffin.
The soulful, old rock feel that the guitar and drums match Marshall’s voice, which he sometimes puts aside to lend full appreciation to the music itself. The solos by themselves are enough to make the cd worth listening.
Tracks: The Day, Morning Glory, Be My Man, Better Than Waiting, Hatchet
Artist's Website: http://www.marshalruffin.com
Reviewed by: Megan Morian
See You Soon
A&M/Octone
**
by Al Kaufman
Although he was born in Virginia, Michael Tolcher is a local boy. He grew up in Lovejoy, went to Georgia Tech, and even performed at the Atlanta Federal Penitentiary (where his father served as chaplain). He's a nice guy with a guitar who you really want to like, but when it comes down to it he's just another guy with a guitar.
Tolcher has had some success in the past, when "Sooner or Later," off his debut CD, I Am, was used as the theme song on ABC's short-lived Life As We Know It. See You Soon, a three-song EP, is supposed to serve as a teaser for his forthcoming album to be released next year. But Tolcher's sensitive new-age guy lyrics are too simplistic to tease. Lead track, "Airplane," could easily be confused with a children's song, as Tolcher expresses the kid-like wonder of flying. "I'm on an airplane./I'm flying over/Over the oceans/I used to sail on./I'm on an airplane."
"Give Me Your Hand" is not much better. You can almost see his puppy-dog eyes as he pleads, "Give me your hand/I need more than two."
The saving grace is "Speed Feels Better." Another song full of childlike wonder and reminiscing, the lyrics fit that open road sound he's going for. Tolcher has a nice, rich voice and can play a rhythm guitar, but so can a few million other people. Nothing on See You Soon demonstrates that he's anything more than that.
Read More Reviews. AtlatnaMusicGuide.com
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Lex’s Perspecs! Lexi Street’s Perspective on the local Atlanta music scene.
Robin Dean SalmonOkay so I’m writing a few cd reviews. Currently I’m listening to Robin Dean Salmon’s album, Come on Home. I’m up to two reviews now. Wow, somebody stop me, right!? Well, you wouldn’t be so quick to judge if you take in account the time you have to sit down and listen to tracks, maybe a few twice, and then wait for the inspiration to write about it. Long gone are the days of yore when I could lay around for hours wondering how I’d fill the second half of my day. I’m no Charles M. Young, some famous writer for Rolling Stone Bob Lefsetz writes about in his newsletter rants. Which by the way, if you don’t subscribe to this already and you’re in the industry, you should go sign up now. I’m just some musician myself trying to pay it forward. After all, musicians rely on the hard core fan. The person that loves music for the sake of music, they’re beyond the occasional fan, or the person who enjoys a band from a good friends recommendation and you actually like their taste. I’m probably one of those, not the super fan. They are the advocate to the artistry of all music, the unconventional unconditionalist that burns up time and hours finding gems in the haystack in the vast fields of the internet. Maybe it’s because I’m busy writing music or just trying to keep up with life. So I’ll gladly accept a cookie, an award, accommodation, or whatever for taking the time to reveal to you some fellow musical brethren. Alright I’ll stop with all self grandeur and get on with it.
I have to warn you, with such a limited vocabulary on the world of country music, I can only tell you in my limited ways what I experienced while listening to this cd. For starters, although Robin Dean’s music is country at its roots, I felt like the style of some of the songs had a very alt’country feel, like something you’d hear from the Wallflowers that met up down the road with the Jayhawks. And stop me if I’m lying, but track #1 I’m Ready Now harkens me back to the days of listening to Big Head Todd and the Monsters, (I would love to know if anyone else hears that tone in his voice.) The music is rich with Steele Pedal cries in the vein of country’s trademark twangy style. The title track of the album, Come on Home, is definitely my favorite. Its heartfelt crooner style reminds me of the Maverick’s cover of Sinatra’s Saying Something Stupid: Like I Love You…I get the feeling RD is a spiritual person, his music is riddled with the deeper side of the human condition. Although the other half of his music possesses the upbeat fun style of Buffet, minus subjects like cheeseburgers and the likes. I know, I know, Buffet’s not country, neither are the other folks I listed, but this is my experience, remember? I’m sure RD would be happy for you to go buy the album, listen and have a debate with me about it. So you go right ahead. Track 15’s, Daddy is a Short Man is a testament to this kind of playful style, it’s swingin’ rock-a-billy feel sounds like what Elvis would be playing these days if he was still doing what he loved best. Robin Dean is having a cd release party next Wednesday, the 28th, at Smith’s Olde Bar for this album. If what I described is what you like, than get off your reclusive, anti-social vortex of a couch, and go live and hear some live music!
Lexi Street is a singer songwriter with an alternative band out of Atlanta, Georgia, and is a self proclaimed opinion genius and is great at giving her opinion. Who isn’t? Lexi loves music and writes this column/blog to help promote the local Atlanta music scene. A scene that has been dwarfed by mostly marginal restaurants that have saturated the Atlanta market, whereby people should be spending time doing the thing that connects us most to others, defines our times and our individual generations, listening to live music!_________________________________________________________________________________________