| Original Message |
watcher652 (no login)
Posted Jun 30, 2009 8:55 AM
Just wanted to start a thread with the title of the new CD.
I've listened to Common Rotation's latest CD several times now and here are some thoughts. I'm sorry I don't know the proper musical terms and I'm worthless at picking out musical instruments. I also don't know what exactly is the difference between country and bluegrass so when I use those terms it's entirely my interpretation of the feeling.
1. No Love At All - written by David Mansfield/Billy Swan
Adam and Eric both have a turn at the lyrics and harmonize on the chorus. How I love it when Adam and Eric harmonize! Banjo, steel guitar(?), shaker, and autoharp are among the instruments I can identfy.
2. Here to Stay - written by Matthew Stephen Young (DBC)
I love this bouncy tune! When I first heard it I thought, "Wait! Is that Adam? Wow!" Lots of harmonica and the percussion really enlivens the mood. I think this may be my favorite song on the whole album. The backup vocals on the chorus are lovely.
3. Get on the Idol - written by Eric Kufs & Adam Busch
Eric takes the lead on this song. The song is kind of a sad story. Guess that would make it country. 8^)
4. White House Blues - traditional song arranged by CR & DBC
You really hear the supporting guest vocals in this bluegrass song. Love the pickin' session in the middle.
5. My Kingdom - written by Eric Kufs
This sounds just like how Eric does the song at the CR shows. Ok, with more instrumental support. Love the harmony in the chorus. Is that harmony? What do you call it when Adam comes in but Eric is still the dominant voice as opposed to when their voices are blending equally?
6. Let's Go for a Drive - written by Matthew Stephen Young (DBC)
A fun more-bluegrass-than-country song. There's a touch of Mexico with the horns.
7. Easy Chair - written by Mark McConville (DBC)
There's an easy chair in My Kingdom, but it's not the same one. A slower song. I have to say it's my least favorite song on the CD but I think it's because the rest of the songs are lively, bouncy, or familiar from the shows or the UMs, where this song is more reflective. I like the sentiment at the end of the song, "I spent my life standing up for what's right so I could sit down in that easy chair."
8. Union Maid Fight Song - written by Eric Kufs
An old favorite, with a big horn section. Sounds like a party there at the end. And hey, now I know the full title of the song!
9. Travel Late - written by Adam Busch, Jordan Katz & Eric Kufs
I love this song and my only complaint is that it's too short! Made me grin at the end. Adam sounds, hmm, rather wistful to me. Is that a mandolin or is it a banjo there?
10. Bitter Honey - written by Eric Kufs
One of my favorite songs, you just have to sing along. Ok, I'm pretty sure I hear a mandolin here along with the banjo.
Those are my initial thoughts. So, what do you think? |
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