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Metropulse - Knoxville, TN - June 29, 2000 |
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Local CD Reviews Brian Waldschlager - Down There (Disgraceland) from Eye on the Scene
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The current chapter in the long, winding saga of local-boy-gone Music
City U.S.A.—Brian Waldschlager—seems to be a happy and successful
one at last. Waldschlager's first solo release, Down There
(Disgraceland Records) proves that all of Brian's hard work, touring,
and constant playing in myriad bands has honed his songwriting and
performing skills to perfection.
Down There is a mix of rock 'n' country stylings that is sure to please anyone who's spent a night or two (or decades) in a smoky, honky tonk dive. It seems that Waldschlager's years in the trenches of the underbelly of the music industry has yielded a mature, world-weary quality that just can't be manufactured by an upstart. Former Five Bucks member Richie Owens' production is right on the money: clear as a bell and professional—but not so high gloss that it takes away the rough edge. Apparently, Waldschlager and Owens learned to communicate well in their years as 'Bucks. Owens also co-wrote two of the tracks on the 10-song collection. Local scenesters take note: songwriting credits include veteran scenester (and former bandmate of Waldschlager in Wh-Wh) Terry Hill, as well as Brian's rendition of Knoxville's garage rock poet laureate Todd Steed's hit, "You Must Be from Nashville." Considering Brian's experience in the Music City, who could be more qualified to cover that tune? Down There displays a true focus from Waldschlager, who has the confidence and ability to take a few risks here and there without overstepping his bounds. His voice can go from gruff to sweet in a matter of seconds (as in the falsetto passage on "Take A Ride") and it all sounds effortless. Brian's recent show at Patrick Sullivan's Saloon drew a packed house, with good reason. Rather than being a flash in the pan, Waldschlager is in it for the long run, and he's got the chops to prove it. You can find the disc in area record stores or online by visiting http://www.disgraceland.com. Chalk up another winner for Disgraceland Records. |
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