John
Velsor – Keyword Almost (Independent)
The list of John Velsor’s influences is both long and
wide-ranging, from punk, indie and folk to Debussy and the Velvet Underground.
His new album “Keyword Almost” reflects his broad tastes, and he incorporates
them into his sound, but without compromising his own musical identity. Indeed,
there’s an easy melodic flow to be found throughout the album, which suggests
that, although Velsor absorbs various genres as a fan, he’s single-minded when
it comes to his own output, with his songs providing the basis of his style.
He defines his music as folk-rock, and that’s about
right, though it’s a particularly energetic version. In his home city of New
York, Velsor’s a regular live attraction, both solo and with his band, and most
of them appear on the album. It begins with one of his best songs “It Just
Stopped Raining”. Its ‘60s feel and solid hooks bring to mind both original
Brit-invasion artists like The Hollies, but also ‘70s retro power popsters such
as Greg Kihn and The Rubinoos. There’s a hard, rocking edge to a few of his
songs, especially “Time to Go”, its chopping
rhythm contrasting nicely with Velsor’s vocal, and a dirty, brilliant guitar
solo also features.
Phil S.
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