Richard Barone is one of pop’s unsung heroes, leader of the cult band The Bongos in the 80’s and a master of song-craft in his later solo work. If you want a good overview of his past work, you can download “Collection: An Embarassment Of Richard.” Now he has collaborated with famed producer Tony Visconti (T. Rex, David Bowie) on his first album in over 16 years. “Glow” is a many layered contemporary adult pop album. It starts with the captivating “Gravity’s Pull,” with Richard’s trademark lighter-than-air vocal and a compelling hook. This is followed with the smart orchestral pop of “Glow” a magical melody driven by a chiming guitar and uplifting lyrics, similar to George Harrison’s latter work.
The album includes a unique cover of T.Rex’s “Girl” and the true story of a lesbian’s life in “Odd Girl Out” co-written with Jill Sobule. A collaboration with veteran songwriter Paul Williams (“Silence Is Our Song”) seems a rare misfire here, as Richard’s vocal don’t fit that well. Other tracks are sprawling rockers (“Sanctified”) or hypnotic synth melodies (“Yet Another Midnight”). The production gloss is thick on most tracks, but underneath all the fancy vintage synths, digital Les Paul guitar riffs, and elaborate string arrangements is Richard’s solid songwriting. Welcome back, Mr. Barone!
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Wow!! I didn't realize that he was around anymore. Clouds Over Eden is one those albums that I love to surprise people with.Listening to Gravity's Pull brings me back to the first time that I listened to Clouds Over Eden and what I adored about that album. Thanks for the memory