Marc Robillard “Left London”
A Canadian transplant living in L.A., Robillard delivers a solid sophomore pop album that focuses on recollections of failed relationships. The production team of Andrew Bojanic and Liz Hooper keep things crisp and it suits Marc well. Marc’s tortured delivery on “Love Song” is similar to Chris Martin, yet with a warmer demeanor. Next, “Unfold” is an acoustic guitar gem similar to David Mead and “Ghost” is a haunting ballad that slowly burns into your consciousness. Once again we follow the theme on “Everstop” with those perfect “break-up” lyrics.
While each song is beautifully rendered, the protagonist Marc creates is essentially a moping broken heart with no escape from his depression. By the time we get to “Crazy” he asks “is there anybody there who cares?” ‘Left London’ is a brilliant album – each song is finely crafted, my favorites here being pop goodness of “Conclude” and “Bleed.” No filler here as this album stays with you long after the final track plays.
John Laprade “World Class Faker”
John Laprade adds to his EP from 2008 with this full length debut that adds a pile of new tracks. The opener “Soul Shaker” is a standout with its up-tempo, positive message and solid melody. Many of the newer songs have a slower tempo that fit solidly into the singer-songwriter vibe, a good example here is “World-Class Faker” where the production is clean and sentiments are genuine. Fans of James Taylor will really love the gentle “Infinity,” as it provides a nice contrast to the rocker “Knock You Down.” My favorite new song here is the bouncy piano of “Anytime” which resembles Michael Carpenter in the chorus. A really good album that rewards with repeat listens.
Hi Amanda
You're right, I do have a well-worn copy of "Girlfriend", but I also have an even more worn out George Brett endorsed infielder's glove from way back. Thanks so much for the kind words. JL
First, thanks to the author for the fine review of both of these discs. Thanks for bringing them to my attention, much appreciated. Secondly, I have to say that I went to John LaPaprade's site to check out some samples of World Class Faker, and it does not disappoint. Great range of stuff, from "Squeeze"-like pop(accurately referenced here awhile back)to Americana-flavored singer-songwriter stuff without the pose of a Pete Yorn. And if somebody can tell me how the heck LaPrade got Television's Richard Lloyd — only one of the greatest, nuttiest guitar wizards ever to come out of the punk movement, or any other movement for that matter — to shred on Knock You Down, I'll give him my copy of Matthew Sweet's "Girlfriend." Oh wait, everybody here has that already! Looking forward to hearing more from LaPrade(and his great band!!!). Awesome pop, pure and simple. John, I know it's a long way from NY, but pleeeaaase come to kansas City — I'll give you my George Brett autographed baseball if you do!