Vance Gilbert (from the album The Mother of Trouble

Vance Gilbert (from the album The Mother of Trouble

Vance Gilbert (from the album The Mother of Trouble available as an independent release) (by Lee Zimmerman)
Although birthed in the Folk music world early on, Vance Gilbert has managed to carve out a career that incorporates an impressive array of diverse genres, one that encompasses not only his early traditional roots, but Jazz, Pop and most forms of musical expression in-between.

His latest offering, The Mother of Trouble, is no exception. While its title may appear to portend darker designs, it shows Gilbert’s verve and versatility remain intact. It has its down moments to be sure, as evidenced by the remorse and regret addressed to the victim of endless harassment in “Black Rochelle” or his cast-off to the jilted lover for whom he bids a final farewell.
‘You ain’t a bad person, you’re just bad for me…’
Vance Gilbert’s way with words is evident in everything he writes, but it’s especially obvious here.
“One or Two of These Things” offers a perfect example: ‘if you were a championship home run, I would be the centerfielder’s catcher glove’. Indeed, few others could express their devotion with such clear conviction and description.
Still, he doesn’t let his clever conceits get in the way of the music. His take on “Close to You” takes a clever spin on the Carpenters classic, while the up-tempo title track and the pervasive propulsion of “Body in the Well” compete for immediate attention as well. For its part, “A Room Somewhere” expresses more than a hint of energy and enthusiasm with an amiable attitude besides.
Even when he opts to convey some of his mellower melodies — “Simple Things” and “I Hope He’s the One This Time” being two obvious examples — Vance Gilbert shows that even after more than a dozen albums, his commitment to conveying earnest emotion and heartfelt humanity remain as clear and convincing as ever. Not surprisingly then, The Mother of Trouble offers a most welcome embrace. (by Lee Zimmerman)
 
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