Regular Columnists

Artist: Marc Douglas Berardo
Album: “As You Make Your Way”
CD Review: Berardo is a versatile and talented guitar player who has a nice way of telling a story with his songs. He sings them with a pleasing voice full of expression. All of the songs are beautifully co-produced by the talented Nick Deal and Berardo.

Nick Deal gets extra credit points as a producer that appreciates singer/songwriters with his judicious ear. He’s quite a talented multi instumentalist, adding organ and various keyboards, banjo, slide, pedal steel, mandolin and dobro. But he adds are only subtle touches that accent without ever overpowering. The song and especially the end of “Just One” is a perfect example.

Berardo’s songwriting is that of an honest to goodness troubador. His songs express his doubts and triumphs, struggles and dreams. Although they seem to me to be largely songs about being a songwriter, these are still universal emotions set to lovely melody and expertly played.

The overall ‘vibe’ of the CD is just wonderful. It is an intimate feeling with Barardo’s voice and melody up front and the supporting instruments adding just the right touch. The songs are gentle and encouraging. Fans of David Wilcox and David Grey will appreciate this songwriter very much.

http://www.hayloftrecords.com