Vance Gilbert
(Disismye Music)
Vance Gilbert's eclectic blend of folk, pop, soul and gospel provides a stylistic synthesis that finds the sum of its parts redefining the music as a whole. That's especially evident on Up On Rockfield, Gilbert's most impressive effort yet and one that draws inspiration from a broad array of subjects... from politics, religion and romance and then beyond, clear to the cosmos. While Gilbert's got a reputation as a witty and perceptive performer, this is his first studio set to fully reflect both his attitude and his insights.
Being the tireless troubadour, Gilbert respects tradition but pays heed to contemporary references as well. The title track finds him channeling the rugged R&B wail of Van Morrison, while the soulful and spunky "Welcome to Lovetown" suggests John Hiatt's country croon. Fortunately, Gilbert's also an original; "Goodbye Pluto," his tender take on the solar system's least appreciated planet ("Three thousand miles away and God just leaves you there") is both entertaining and affecting, while conversely, the late night ruminations of "Judge's House" bare some tangled implications. Likewise, the weary barroom blues of "Old Man's Advice" and the thin veil of resentment shrouding "Whatever Louise Wants" find fertile terrain within that deep emotional reservoir. It's not surprising then, that when Gilbert concludes the album with his ultimate entreaty, "Sing Me Down," any thought of turning him down becomes completely out of the question.
Standout tracks: "Goodbye Pluto," "Up On Rockfield," "House of Prayer" LEE ZIMMERMAN
