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: : Review : :
I popped Ray Wilson’s new CD “Change” in the player, expecting to spend the
afternoon listening to progressive rock, probably along the lines of his work with
Genesis. Surprise!
 “Change”
is instead an album of acoustic-based melodic pop. Stylistically and vocally, I’m
reminded of Dave Mathews, REM, and perhaps a little Eric Johnson, Bryan Adams, John
Cougar Mellencamp, and Bruce Springsteen. Ray has an unpretentious, straightforward
vocal tone and delivery. The lyrics are tender, sensitive and heartfelt. The music
complements the tone of the lyrics beautifully. Overall, the album’s sound is
melodic and clear, which again helps in effectively communicating the lyrics.
Ray Wilson is an excellent songwriter. The message of the lyric appears to drive the
mood of the music. I’m struck by how powerfully the music and lyrics unite. The
songs are memorable—they have that quality that makes them stick in your mind long
after you’ve stopped listening. You know how everyone seems to know the Eagles
“Hotel California”? There are songs on “Change” that have that same super-memorable
quality.
Favorites for me include track 2, “Goodbye Baby Blue”, track 11, “Believe”, and
track 12, “Another Day”. I think “Goodbye Baby Blue” has very strong radio
potential. “Believe” and “Another Day” are also strong contenders. Actually, just
about all the songs have radio hit potential! I strongly urge Ray’s record label to
give this album their full marketing/promotional attention. I would MUCH rather hear
Ray Wilson on radio than the schlock with which we’re often bombarded.
It’s not often I hear an album so well done. The songs, the lyrics, the production;
it’s all good. Very good. I love the ‘sound’ on this album. It has an organic,
summery quality that’s immediately attractive. Kinda reminds me of some of Melissa
Etheridge’s albums. It feels honest. Ray Wilson’s production skill is equal to his
skill as a musician.
I sincerely hope Ray Wilson’s music gets the opportunity to be heard by the world.
“Change” is touching, memorable and deserving of your time. Check it out!
9 out of 10 stars
Review by Jeffrey Ryan Smoots
: : Visit the artist web site : :
: : Discography : :
Guaranteed Pure - 1990
Stiltskin - 1994
Genesis - 1997
Cut - 1999
Live and Acoustic - 2002
Yet Another Day - 2003
Change -2003
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