The Andy Robinson Band
The Andy Robinson Band
Act As If Music
1998
11 tracks
These days, Andy Robinson is a rare individual: a singer/songwriter who has gotten past the idea that he must sing and play every part of every song himself. Rather than just a guy and a guitar, the music on this release is a pleasing mix of instruments and voices evoking a quiet world the listener can sink comfortably into.
The contrast between the voices and vocal styles of Robinson and Babs Parent brings a welcome variety to the music. Parent's voice is soft and melodic but with a gritty blues quality. It is this latter quality that maintains the connection with Robinson's sound, which has a folk-rock edginess approaching that of the best roots rockers.
As a lyricist, Robinson tends more toward pop sentiments than deeper intellectual themes found in some folkie's writings. Even when they get a bit serious, these are fun songs. Often, with a slight rearrangement these songs could be performed as rock and roll teen laments or perhaps bluegrass foot stompers. Some examples of this are "Fool in Love", "I'm in Love with Your Sister", and "I Play the Dulcimer". The vocal arrangements of these last two are reminiscent of several Cowsills hits. On the other hand, although in the same vein, "Miserable", with its interesting musical and vocal changes, comes across like one of those great classics Jim Steinman penned for Meatloaf.
Musically and lyrically, many of these songs have a quirkiness reminiscent of Michael Nesmith's songs. While tightly written, they carry with them a sense of carefree fun often lacking in contemporary folk music.
For those wanting a break from all those one voice, one instrument releases by singer/songwriters, this quirky, eclectic mix of folk, pop, blues and rock should be the ideal tonic. Whether performed by his own band or by others, expect to hear a lot more Andy Robinson songs in the future.
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Review Written: October 3, 1999
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