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BANDS: Punk
& Ska INTERESTS: Venues ETC... About
LOTD
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Lyle King:
5 A.M.
Six songs constitute this EP, a modest collection of acoustic fare that offers some gentle musings on relationships, good and bad, and the ones that got away. Its a pleasing record, one that hints at mainstream appeal, but one lacking in provocative songwriting. Last year Rob Thomas performed some of his Matchbox Twenty hits live and acoustic for a local LA radio station and to surprising effect. Im not a fan of the band, but I have to admit I had to rethink my opinion after hearing the songs without all their glossy production. A version of 3 A.M., for example was much more affecting, and I was left in my car admiring it. (Hey, as far as mainstream pop goes, its good stuffat least acoustically). I mention this, because if I liken King to anyone, its Thomas, since both share a directness (if not a sweetness) in their vocal approach, as well as a Top 40-friendliness. And while Thomas is a bit more aggressive (if not muscular) at times, both share an earnest, plaintive style that is pleasing to the ear. If King has commercial aspirations, I would think Thomas to be a good model for him to aspire to (from a songwriting standpoint that is). All thats missing right now is something to hold onto. Leap of Faith and Almost Fell in Love are good starts and offer some intriguing observations (Sometimes whats comfortable just isnt right.), but fall short. Yes, these are sweet, inoffensive songs, and yes, theyre good for a spin or two in the early morning hour, but beyond the rather generic chord progressions, most of these songs never leave third gear, never change direction or offer anything memorable. As a result this record never aspires to be anything more than nice. But again, hes got that voice, and I think its only a matter of time before hes inspired to write some great pop songs. Theres certainly an audience for a singer like King, and no doubt hell reach them someday, but for now his best work is still ahead of him.
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