Somewhere Near Paterson

by

Richard Shindell

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Richard Shindell gets better and better. His last album, "Reunion Hill," was spectacular, and I bought this album quite worried that he was going to be falling apart on it, as so few artists manage to follow up good albums well. Shindell managed to surprise me, though, in putting together what is without a doubt the best new album I have purchased in the past three years. The songs on this album have an amazing variety of mood and style, ranging from rock (Confession) to traditional folk (Calling the Moon) to a brief little Celtic piece (Spring). The lyrics are astounding, particularly in "Transit," the standout track on the album, and the one that the title image comes from. Shindell is, to my mind, the best male singer-songwriter out there today. If you are at all a fan of folk music, this album is an essential for your collection. Get it. Now.

I bought this album on the basis of having listened to one song, "The Grocer's Broom," on Kent U. radio. I had never heard of Richard Shindell. To me, he sounded like the late Jean Shepard....if Shepard had been able to sing! "The Grocer's Broom" is a very poignant cut; a grocer who has to vacate his shop after 30 years because the landlord wants to raise his rent.

There are several other good cuts on the album, especially "Somewhere Near Patterson." The listener would do well to pay more attention to the lyrics than the music or the delivery, as the songs are essentially poetry incidentally set to music. There is an almost relentless pessimism in the album, even in those cuts that contain a glimmer of hope.

Unfortunately, many of the songs have a sameness, especially those in the Celtic vein. I wouldn't hesitate to buy another of Richard Shindell's albums, but this one was a mixed blessing. I have worn out "Grocer's Broom," though. I love it!