Jeffrey Foskett “Voices”
Jeffrey Foskett isn’t a household name, but he really should be. One of the most versatile and skilled vocalists in pop, he spent most of his career with The Beach Boys. He sang the high falsettos previously credited to Carl Wilson and was a dependable vocalist for countless live shows. Unfortunately, his singing career was cut short in early 2018 when he was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Surgeries and treatments have led to the loss of a vocal chord, but he continues to play other instruments. Foskett’s stunning a cappella singing pays tribute to several pop classics and was recorded over several years’ time.
The easy-going “Feelin’ Just The Way I Do” by Hawaiian pop duo Cecelio and Kapono is very typical of Jeff’s solo work, and the gentle rendition of Buddy Holly’s “True Love Ways” is perfect for a slow dance. But it wouldn’t be a Foskett LP without some Beach Boys covers. This is where Jeffrey kills it. “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” and “Good Vibrations” are faithful to Brian Wilson’s vocal arrangements, but on “Warmth of The Sun,” I think it’s even better than the original. Jeff’s version of The Association’s “Everything That Touches You” is untouched by instrumentation and showcases his amazing harmonic skills. Another jaw-dropping display of vocal skill is his rehearsal on Neil Sedaka’s “Laughter In The Rain.” The collection is a touching portrait of Foskett’s love of harmony and compelling melodies, so do yourself a favor and get this now. Highly Recommended.
Stephen Clair “Strange Perfume”
NY musician Stephen Clair makes a basic statement with his new album, Strange Perfume. It’s that rock and roll doesn’t need a lot of bells and whistles to be good, but it does need emotional resonance to make an impact. Clair’s sound is what I would consider alternative garage rock, you’ll hear influences from Lou Reed, Wilco, Soul Asylum and The Rolling Stones. Stephen is joined by bandmates Aaron Latos, Daria Grace, Nate Allen, and Brad Hubbard.
The title track starts with a grungy kind of jangling rhythm and Clair’s understated, but deep vocal keeps things moving. “Cadillac Jack,” is a big highlight, similar to Tom Petty’s style with a steady beat and ethereal backing vocals in the chorus. “I’ve Got Trouble” has more guitar muscle, like the Stones a little with the barroom croon, “I’ve got no trouble, getting into trouble, it just comes to me.” Another highlight is “Crown Of Man” with its grimy guitar slowly trudging forward full of squelches, and the tempo increases as it gains traction. “What Got In Your Head” is another slow grower that sticks. Overall a terrific LP full of bluesy rock that deserves to be heard.
https://youtu.be/tthtzn-J068