CD REVIEW: Dodd Ferrelle - Lonely Parades
By Don Sechelski - 06/23/2009 - 04:33 PM EDT
Artist: Dodd Ferrelle Album: Lonely Parades Label: Two Sheds Music Website:http://www.doddferrelle.com Genre: Indie alternative pop/rock Technical Grade: 8.5/10 Production/Musicianship Grade: 8.5/10 Commercial Value: 8/10 Overall Talent Level: 8.0/10 Best Songs: I Can't Wait, Used CD Review:
Lonely Parades,
the latest CD from Athens, Georgia resident Dodd Ferrelle, is an excellent
example of everything that’s right with Indie music. Ferrelle’s heartfelt tunes
offer homage to REM, the godfathers of Athens indie rock, but reflect Ferrelle’s
other influences ranging from Roy Orbison to Elvis Costello. Joined by John
Mills on bass, and Kyle Spence on drums, the lineup for Lonely Parades also includes producer David Barbe on keys, William
Tonks on lead guitar, and Betsy Inglesby on backup vocals.
I Can’t Wait is a
pop delight. Mamie Fike Simonds adds violin to Ferrelle’s song about the coming
of his new daughter. Miss Bliss,
another ode to Ferrell’s daughter, features Tim Adams on lead guitar. Don’t Go Away is a country waltz
featuring John Neff on pedal steel. Used
is one of my favorites on the CD. Noel Blackmon on mandolin and David VanWyck
on cello join Ferrelle on acoustic guitar. Ferrelle’s plaintive vocal and stark
lyrics are reminiscent of early Dylan as he sings, “Clicking heels, I’m
spinning wheels, Never knowing how it feels To watch the congregations kneel.
Do you think they’ll all be healed?”
Lonely Parades is
a passionate, heartfelt CD filled with interesting, engaging songs. Ferrelle
marches to his own drum even as he reflects his influences. His songs are
unique slices of Americana with enough depth to call for repeated listening.
Recommended.
Subscribe
to The Muse's News,
free monthly newsletter for songwriters
with exclusive articles, copyright & publishing advice,
music, website & book reviews, contest & market information,
a chance to win prizes & more!