(Two Sheds Music)

www.2sheds.com

Dodd Ferrelle hails from the fertile musical environs of Athens Georgia, but has yet to get the breakout opportunities accorded some of his contemporaries.  (Uh, R.E.M. anyone?)  Regardless, with this, the third album he's produced under his own aegis, Ferrelle ups the ante and makes a solid play for solo stardom.  Through a mix of atmospheric arrangements and stark yet emotive vocals, he creates a vibrant melodic tapestry that grabs immediate attention.

In some ways, Ferrelle's delivery outweighs his content.  While the songs are striking, the presentation makes the music seem larger than life.  This is due, to a certain extent, to an exemplary support cast, including notable eccentric Jim White, journeyman Kyle Spence and producer and Sugar stalwart David Barbe. Fortunately, they don't detract from Ferrelle's impassioned approach, one that turns songs such as "Lonely Parades," "I Can't Wait," "Come Home" and "What's Another Broken Heart" into anguished assaults and melodramatic excursions.  Ferrelle's also at ease with a drift and a sway, and the occasional ramble of White's banjo helps tone down the angst and enhance the accessibility.

Ferrelle's got great potential to become a breakout sensation and Lonely Parades reveals his ability to project an indelible presence.  Still, the dichotomy between his over-arching style and an overtly inward gaze remains somewhat confusing and could result in a rather muddled impression.

Standout tracks: "Lonely Parade," "Miss Bliss" LEE ZIMMERMAN