01.06.04
by Kristen
Fischer
DiscoveringArtists.com
Thanks to a superb partnership with our peeps over
at Decent Xposure, we bring you this review of their
sophomore compilation CD, a masterful blend of talent
worthy of showcasing.
 Cari
Gelber and Ben Hordell have done it again – they've
hand-selected a group of fresh artists with mega talent
to be displayed on Volume 2 of their rising Decent Xposure
compilation series. This time, they've mixed blues
with alternative rock, for a compendium of great artists.
Marc Broussard's track, "Blue Jeans"
represents him well, and offers some blues rock that
seems to go right to the soul. Red Wanting Blue added
"Borderline", a great slow alt rock tune
with heartfelt lyrics. "Knock Out Punch"
is sure to be a popular request by Toothpick, a New
York City group with a Michael Tolcher/Jason Mraz kind
of alternative rap. Owen Beverly's "For
Mia" is my favorite song of his, a smooth rock
and roll track with some sweet lyrics.
The already popular "Whole Again" by Granian
was added to the compilation. The song features witty,
introspective lyrics, soaring lead vocals and a fun
semi-jam style. The Radiohead-like band 19 Wheels is
featured for their song, "Are You Happy."
I'd never heard of them and they're already
a new favorite (but that's what compilations are
for, right?)
"Babylon" by Akiva is also included, a
smooth alternative track with blues rhythms. This song
is such a fun track...a happy song! The energized
"It's About Time" from Ohio's
Will Bowen makes the album complete, and Bowen's
got desirable gritty vocals with a great alt rock sound
backing him up.
The Pete Kilpatrick Supergroup are a welcome addition
to this collection, and they brought their dreamy Mayerish
track, "Glow." This song is a pure treat
– an authentic jam from this Maine band.
I'd never heard of Todd Martin, who reminds me
of PJ Laughran with his quickly sung yet meaningful
lyrics. "All In Good Time" showcases his
intricate acoustic guitar talents. Oval Opus returns
with "Say Anything", an electrically-driven
track with some masterful lead vocals. "Sheen"
was offered up by Washington DC's, The Low Life,
another funkish track reminiscent vocally of Maroon
5.
Overall, there's a heavy alternative rock vibe
and blues come in secondary. Gelber and Hordell blend
just the right styles to showcase singer-songwriters
who have varied talents; and they do so in a way that
gives each artist and band their decent exposure.
For more information, visit http://www.decentxposure.com.
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