The Weeklings “3”
Those veteran mop tops from Asbury Park, The Weeklings are back with their third effort. The Weeklings are; singer-bassist Lefty Weekling (Glen Burtnik,) singer-guitarists Zeek Weekling (Bob Burger) and Rocky Weekling (John Merjave,) and drummer Smokestack Weekling (Joe Bellia). While the band is likely the most Beatlesque outfit on the east coast, The Weeklings rock with their own unique sound and style.
“I Want You Again” is a great start with Lefty’s hook-filled chorus and tight harmonies, and it’s three minutes of perfection. “In the Moment” is another great song as it shimmers with multiple melody lines. The Rockpile-like “1,000 Miles Away” has rockabilly energy and the three-part harmonies on “Change Your Mind” are pure magic. The originals are so good and the covers too; they breathe new life into the Easybeats’ classic “Friday on My Mind” featuring Herman’s Hermit’s lead singer Peter Noone. The spirit of The Beatles lives in these exceptional musicians and without a note of filler, this becomes my first nominee for best album of 2020. Super Highly Recommended!
Danny Henry “Danifest Destiny”
Based in Milford, CT musician Danny Henry started recording this album with help from Adam Marsland, then the following year he met producer Fernando Perdomo and finished the album. Danny favors balladry, and his many influences include, Motown, Elton John, The Beach Boys, and the late Neil Innes.
It starts with a faux dance musical number “The Swoop” which takes a while to get past the jokey parts to the fifties-style chorus and guitar solo. Unfortunately “Crossfading” double tracks Danny’s falsetto, and it will turn off some as he tries to do a 10cc-like parody but doesn’t quite pull it off.
Henry then sings about innocent romance, like “Dearest Thing” or “David Cassidy Day” without a hint of sarcasm, and it borders on schmaltz. Some songs are wonderfully written like “Darling Eyes” and “Maybe We’re In Love” with hints of glam in the guitar, but Henry’s vocal takes getting used to. Ballads like “Cereal Man” and “Hollywood Boulevard” have lovely instrumental setups, and Danny’s vocal style works best here. If you’re looking for something different, give it listen.
