Marc Robillard “Left London”
A Canadian transplant living in L.A., Robillard delivers a solid sophomore pop album that focuses on recollections of failed relationships. The production team of Andrew Bojanic and Liz Hooper keep things crisp and it suits Marc well. Marc’s tortured delivery on “Love Song” is similar to Chris Martin, yet with a warmer demeanor. Next, “Unfold” is an acoustic guitar gem similar to David Mead and “Ghost” is a haunting ballad that slowly burns into your consciousness. Once again we follow the theme on “Everstop” with those perfect “break-up” lyrics.
While each song is beautifully rendered, the protagonist Marc creates is essentially a moping broken heart with no escape from his depression. By the time we get to “Crazy” he asks “is there anybody there who cares?” ‘Left London’ is a brilliant album – each song is finely crafted, my favorites here being pop goodness of “Conclude” and “Bleed.” No filler here as this album stays with you long after the final track plays.
John Laprade “World Class Faker”
John Laprade adds to his EP from 2008 with this full length debut that adds a pile of new tracks. The opener “Soul Shaker” is a standout with its up-tempo, positive message and solid melody. Many of the newer songs have a slower tempo that fit solidly into the singer-songwriter vibe, a good example here is “World-Class Faker” where the production is clean and sentiments are genuine. Fans of James Taylor will really love the gentle “Infinity,” as it provides a nice contrast to the rocker “Knock You Down.” My favorite new song here is the bouncy piano of “Anytime” which resembles Michael Carpenter in the chorus. A really good album that rewards with repeat listens.
