Reviewed by Kit Burns
Paul Ford/The Moon
Singer/songwriter Paul Ford takes a more bluesy approach to Americana. Although the country affections are still felt, especially on “Dark Chocolate,” Ford is more rock than twang as on “The Recipe,” the title track, and “Every Time,” which leans closer to alternative, actually. What Ford is doing here is a throwback to the days when the blues played an integral part in rock & roll. Producer Mike Hellebusch smartly avoids the pop polish that often stains singer/songwriter albums these days. There’s a rawness to these tunes, like on “What They Want,” that captures the urgency and streetwise pulse of real rock.
Ford has surrounded himself with a large number of guest musicians that provide these tracks with an added kick. The CD is laced with saxophones, trumpets, French horns, trombones, violins, and strings that display greater ambition on the part of Ford and Hellebusch. Ford isn’t alone in riding the retro-rock road; however, many of his peers usually take a more conservative approach, keeping everything stripped down. Furthermore, Ford writes exceptionally well; “If I Were Superman” and the moody “Isolation” convey heartfelt sentiments with genuine tenderness and no saccharine fluff.
