Geoff Barone – Conversation Pieces (Independent)
Geoff Barone is
something of an enigma. The New York City based singer-songwriter-composer-musician
has a CV that includes TV, film, video games and musical theatre, and “Conversation
Pieces” is his fourth album, that I know of. It begs the question: why isn’t he
better known?
I know there are lots of
talented artists out there, toiling away, and never receiving the recognition
they deserve, but it’s difficult to understand precisely where Barone is
falling short. He certainly has the respect of fellow musicians, as over 20 of
them appear on “Conversation Pieces”, and their presence, together with the many
instruments they bring into play, gives the collection a depth of sound that
brings to mind the grand progressive productions of the early ‘70s.
The fact that it’s a
bonafide concept album, with a structured narrative, only adds to the illusion,
and fortunately Barone has more than enough talent to match his musical
ambitions. Though very much a rock album, he incorporates a range of sounds and
styles to tell the tale of a nameless, troubled teen and his journey through
high school.
Guest vocalists take
roles within the story, and they lend the album a defined filmic quality.
Albums like “Tommy” and “The Wall” provide easy reference points, certainly
with regard to structure, though “Conversation Pieces” doesn’t sound much like
either. In fact it’s almost impossible to come up with easy comparisons, which
is always a good thing.
The tracks are merged to
present the piece as a seamless whole, and listeners are encouraged to hear the
hour-long album in one sitting. As for standout tracks, there isn’t any
shortage, but it’s important to hear them in context, so I can only off much
the same advice. Get comfortable, open a bottle and enjoy.
Phil S.
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