STYLE: Rock RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 49354-14638 LABEL: Independent FORMAT: CD Album ITEMS: 1
Reviewed by Paul Kerslake
The Connection is a Somerset-based four-piece made up of veterans who are all active in various groups. 'Prodigal Son' is their first album together as a group, although Chris Betts, the lead guitarist and main singer, has cut many solo albums. The title track is a foot stomping, '70s rocking sing-along based on the parable with some fun lyrics. This is followed by "Redemption Song", which takes on a slightly prog rock feel, and that is followed by a cover of the Curtis Mayfield classic "People Get Ready", showcasing the vocals of drummer/multi instrumentalist Rowena Steady. Stylistically the album continues in this vein, alternating between guitar-driven rock numbers and keyboard-led pop songs. A particular favourite is "Mighty Like A Flood" with a great guitar solo and vocals. While the songs are good, and the band members are clearly talented and experienced, the recording and production really don't do it justice and let down what could be a great album; the energy and ability put into the recording is stifled by the sound, the one exception being the closing and very moving track "Israel" which comes across really well. Better production needed to make this stand out from the crowd.
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