Taylor Locke “Time Stands Still”
This year we find Taylor Locke (Rooney) going in a slightly different direction with his solo album, as opposed to his work with The Roughs. We hear a more of a singer-songwriter vibe than the colorful rocker of the past. And Locke still has that amazing talent for melody, plus his guitar prowess just keeps getting better. With that, “Burbank Woman” is an understated opening with an early ‘70s acoustic flavor and it follows the albums theme about a crumbling relationship with a distant partner.
“The Game” follows that musical template, so fans of America, The Eagles and Firefall will definitely enjoy this. The big single here is “Running Away From Love” and it showcases Taylor’s tight composition and brilliant songwriting. The swirling guitar riffs that lead “So Long,” recalls his previous work with The Roughs. “Call Me Kuchu” has a bluesy pop riff, reminding me of Ian Lloyd a little and the sweet storytelling on “The Art of Moving On’ goes into what it takes to get over a fresh break-up. Then the gentle ballad “No Dice” dovetails right into this picture. This is a quality album that stands as more a personal statement from Taylor, and I enjoyed it thoroughly.
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Pseudonym “Revolving Door”
Pseudonym is a band consisting of Paul Desjarlais, and his imaginary bandmates (Cliff, Gil and Waylan). He’s got an interesting bio on the Bandcamp page of Revolving Door. The album features a variety of musical styles from new wave to indie rock. “Art School Lady” is very much in the 80’s style of Game Theory with its strong bass under a jangling rhythm. Paul’s light vocal works well on the harmonious “Long Goodbyes,” and “Better” really sounds like a lost early 80’s chart hits.
A few tracks feel more like demos, but they’re good demos. Another highlight “Caught On Fire” has those sweet backing harmonies and lyrics of a long lost relationship. The last few songs feature more of a rock sound, as heavy guitar fuzz and echo features on “There Can Be No Doubt” and “Overrun.” A very solid cover of Paul Simon’s “The Only Living Boy in New York” rounds things out, and this is one Pseudonym who should make a name for himself.
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