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Rock ‘n’ Reel—February 2002
Recent British concerts have helped heighten the profile here of this talented US singer-songwriter and this, his fourth solo CD release, will doubtless enhance his reputation further. A fascinating character by all accounts, he’s been variously a professional gambler, a peace marcher who made it all the way to the Soviet Union and, since 1996, a full- time musician and songwriter.
On his latest collection, he is joined by regular accompanist Darryl S, and by Dave Carter and Tracy Grammer, fellow tale tellers ‘extraordinaires’. Purpose’s winningly mellow baritone vocals and finger- style guitar work their charms well while, a self-confessed writer of “a great half a song” (though not entirely accurate), there are co-writes with Ellis Paul, Paul Zollo and Robert Morgan Fisher. Carter’s ‘The River, Where She Sleeps’ also features.
Walking a crooked line with Purpose and compatriots, you’re offered a hugely satisfying slice of contemporary Americana, plus a side serving of history, fictional or otherwise, in the story of 19th century American president, Rutherford Hayes. If only school history lessons had been so entertaining. —Dave White - Issue 35 |
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