If you discovered this post from a web engine search, or perhaps a friend linked you, or whatever the case may be, be very proud. You are about to be immersed in what could be quite possibly the greatest Keith Caputo recording known to mankind.
I’m not saying that to make him look fantastic, or to encourage you to buy a CD, this is indeed the most heartfelt truth. Although I listen to a lot of different genres, A Fondness for Hometown Scars is one record that deserves more than just your attention, but also your soul, tears, time, for it produces true clarity.
Upon receiving a copy of this great disc over a month ago, I can tell you straight out, it continues to be part of my regular rotation. Keith has come full circle musically, and in that essence, carries out similarly to debut “solo” disc, Died Laughing. Why, you ask? One word, people: CONTRAST.
Listening to each track is a different adventure unto itself, as it should be, but it perfectly maintains the album’s general theme. Vocally, Keith is on top of his game, sounding so tuned and so fresh. It’s beyond a pleasure to hear this man sing, whether it’s on melodic ballads such as “Nothing to Lose,” or when he kicks it up several notches and kicks in to engine-revving cuts such as “Devil’s Pride” and “Troubles Down.” You’ll also hear another outstanding version of “Got Monsters,” as well as a jazz-like piece entitled “Bleed for Something Beautiful,” where Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers makes a guest appearance playing the trumpet. See what I mean? No matter what genre the song touches upon, everything is executed perfectly. You get no filler here, folks, just twelve (12) slices of absolute Heaven.
Produced by Martyn Lenoble (the man responsible for the thumpy goodness in Porno for Pyros), you have a whole roster of amazing musicianship on here. Revisiting from the Died Laughing days is Craig Ross and Gerry Leonard, and along with the recording process we have the amazing Vincent Jones, who has worked with Morrisey, David Gahan of Depeche Mode, and Sarah McLachlan. Oodles of amazing talent working with Keith and his band, The Sad Eyed Ladies, makes for some serious magic going on in the studio. And it is ever-so-present in this recording.
I can’t even tell you which tracks stand out the most, and you know why? Every single one rocks my world, hands down. However, certain pieces that are near and dear to me include “Devil’s Pride” and “Nothing to Lose.”
Sounds like this album is #1 for Keith Caputo. In my opinion, contrast can make or break an album such as this. Glad to hear he nailed it on the head! I had no idea he worked with so many amazing artists on this one. I’m curious as to how long it took him to produce this album fully. The samples are appreciated, thanks for the succinct yet very informative and inspiring review!