Bart Davenport (from Episodes

Bart Davenport (from Episodes on Tapete Records) (by Lee Zimmerman)
 
Bart Davenport could be considered an undiscovered treasure, a situation tantamount to criminal neglect. Despite a wealth of solo albums released over the course of the past 20 years, he somehow remains well below the radar, and unjustifiably so. A purveyor of pure, unpretentious Pop, he’s evolved into a superior singer/songwriter whose latest album, Episodes, epitomizes the skill and savvy he consistently invests in each of his endeavors. He specializes in sounds that range from ornate offerings like the delicate “Alice Arrives”, “Creatures In Love”, and “Wireless Moon” to the ebullient enthusiasm of “It’s You” and “Holograms”, while never faltering any step of the way. Davenport’s songs are articulate, exquisitely executed and pleasing throughout. The gentle lilt of “Easy Listeners” and “All Dressed in Rain” provide sweet serenades, while the descriptive narratives shared by “Billionaires” and “Naked Man” offer praise to some unlikely heroes.
Part of Davenport’s success lies in his ability to fashion lush arrangements that underscore a delightfully wistful point of view. In listening to the new album, one is reminded of some Brit-rock heroes of yore, Ray Davies in particular. Likewise, the intro to “Strange Animal” with its psychedelic suggestion sounds like it was plucked from a half-forgotten hit by The Hollies. On the other hand, the relentless refrain of the instrumental “99 Forever” brings to mind the 12-string surge of the Byrds’ “Eight Miles High”. So too, his low-lit melodies often recall the lonely laments of Nick Drake and those who specialized in the folk finesse that graced the more soothing sounds of the ‘60s and ‘70s English Invasion. Bart Davenport is adept at recreating the baroque sounds of another era, when craft and creativity found common ground.
It’s been said that Davenport was initially inspired by his parents’ record collection, and in fact, it’s easy to hear the influences that ring through this set of songs in particular. The sound is precious and postured, but always on point, indicative of the skill with which the music is so adroitly executed. Ultimately, Episodes is a wonderful discovery, and one that begs visits to Bart Davenport’s earlier efforts as well. Given the evidence offered here, it’s likely every episode deserves special scrutiny. (By Lee Zimmerman)
For more information and purchase options, please visit the Bart Davenport website

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