Saturday, July 11, 2009

Review: Scott Warren "Quick Fix Bandage"


Those of you familiar with indie rock band Signal Hill Transmission (reviewed here) may already know Scott Warren, whose first solo effort "Quick Fix Bandage" drops on July 28. "Quick Fix Bandage" is described by the artist as a "collection of subtle yet powerful reflections on loves lost and found and the crossed wires one encounters along the way." Regarding his musical style, Warren reveals, "I'm influenced by songwriters like Bob Dylan and Ray Davies, but at the same time I'm inspired by things happening here and now".

A diverse list of talent has contributed to the record, including Brian Young, (Fountains of Wayne, The Posies), Tommy Rickard (Michelle Shocked, Linda Perry), Taras Prodaniuk (Lucinda Williams, Richard Thompson), and many more. The result is a wonderfully cohesive record grounded in roots-based rock. But what really separates "Quick Fix Bandage" from the pack? Warren's pop instincts combined with the multiple layers of musical complexity provide a record that gets more enjoyable with every spin.

There is just enough country twang augmenting these acoustic-driven songs to provide a sorrowful feel when appropriate, but never enough to make you think this is a country record. Warren's lyrics are poetic, and his voice has a gentle urgency about it - soothing, but strong at the same time. The music on "Quick Fix Bandage" is true to the record's name - perfect for healing, introspection, or meditation during the sinking of the sun. Interspersed with harmonica, pedal steel, organ, and mandolin, each song sounds organic yet different from the last.

The most notable tracks include "Before You Say Goodbye", "I Got Your Back", and "Speed of Sound", the latter of which is my favorite. And you won't want to miss what Warren has done with America's classic, "Sister Golden Hair". Take note, you fans of Rhett Miller, Todd Herfindal, and Matt Nathanson.

iPOD-worthy: 1, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 11

Scott Warren on MySpace. Official site.

No comments: