Dylan Gardner “Adventures In Real Time”
Dylan Gardner is a rare find in that he’s a young singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist with a keen love of classic pop and the raw skill to produce a debut that’s both infectious and distinct. He’s been playing on stage since he was four, Dylan is a self-described “music nerd” who collects classic ’60s rock albums (The Beatles, The Beach Boys, Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, and The Doors are particular favorites). And like other young proteges Luke Potter or Drake Bell, he’s absorbed those influences quite well. Hell, anyone who can do Abbey Road in 15 seconds gets my respect.
Even the first line of “Let’s Get Started” gives away his enthusiasm as he sings “I’ll be John and you be Yoko…” to a marching rock beat. And he doesn’t sound particularly retro either, as “I’m Nothing Without You” builds from a simple strum to a richly produced chorus. “Too Afraid To Love You” highlights Dylan’s sharp arrangements, with layered harmonies throughout. He does a good job with a slow ballad (“The Actor”) and even though not every song sticks with you, keep in mind that Dylan has just started here. Fans of Coldplay and Maroon Five will like the concert pleasing tempo of “Feeling Of Love” or the upbeat fun of “With A Kiss.” Overall a highly recommended debut.
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Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds “Chasing Yesterday”
On the second album from Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, the former Oasis lead writer starts off Chasing Yesterday, but ends up accepting that he’s one of the only artists from the Brit-pop era left standing that still caters to the old fan base (Nevermind these guys.) . And unlike brother Liam’s band, Beady Eye – he’s not stuck in the late sixites garage. Plenty of brooding too, but there is more than enough here to make me play highlights and recommend it to fans of great rock and roll.
Read my review on Blogcritics.org
