New York based singer/songwriter Jeff Litman has created a wonderful debut that shines with authenticity. Although trained in both jazz and classical music, it’s Jeff’s love of rock and pop melody that drives the songs that focus on the aftermath of a failed relationship. The opener “Anna” starts the song cycle with upbeat pop bounce, much like Chris Von Sneidern or Jim Boggia. As the album progresses, the lyrics show the stresses of compromise and self-doubt in the story arc. The solid melody of “Complicated” is supported by excellent piano work and jangle guitar riffs. The compromises of the relationship culminate in “My Wife” which is a wedding proposal set as an Elenor Rigby-like ballad with guitar and strings. “Everything You’re Not” has a solid melodic arrangement similar to Jason Falkner’s style and the catchy “Detroit Layover” and “Knock Me Down” are both solid rockers. No filler on any tracks here, and even the tune “Open Arms” uses different instruments (like a xylophone) to get the right emphasis. It runs the gamut, and toward the end of the album, you sense an emotional reckoning is coming.
And when it comes it’s truly great as the real emotional heart of the album comes out on the ballads. Both the title track, “Postscript” and the closer “It Wasn’t Me” are so well done, that the lyrics “It wasn’t me, it was you,”cut to the truth of the break-up, and moving on with your life. A powerful statement and a highly personal work absolutely deserves “top ten” of 2009 consideration.
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great review. I’ve heard the album and fully agree with what you have to say. it is a deeply personal album and I’m thankful this album exists. Listening to the album makes life easier when relationships go wry. Thanks Jeff!