Sunday, July 26, 2009

Review: Ray Mason "Like Bugs Chewing on Paper"


Ray Mason (a.k.a. Ray Mason Band) is an old school veteran keeping the flame of retro rock alive. Quirky, fun, different, and always better with a few beers, he is back with the new CD, "Like Bugs Chewing on Paper", aiming to please long-time fans and recruit new ones alike.

With his beloved axe, the road worn 1965 Silvertone guitar, Ray Mason smiles and charms his way through another 11 jovial tracks. His voice is pedestrian but friendly, at times reminding me a little of John Hiatt. Mason's vocals beam with so much joy that it is obvious that he is in his element and wouldn't want to be doing anything else, despite 40+ years in the biz. His experience helps carry the record in terms of quality production and the wisdom to build your songs around memorable hooks and riffs. "Lunch Box" and "Eloise Please" exemplify this the most in my opinion.

You won't be "bugged" by Ray Mason if you like chewing on NRBQ, They Might Be Giants, or Marshall Crenshaw. Like the CD cover suggests, Ray Mason is inviting you to a carnival...if you can find the little kid inside you, his music is sure to delight.

iPOD-worthy: 2, 3, 4, 8

Ray Mason on MySpace. Official site.

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