Steve Forbert – The Things That I See
While this album is not new, it’s a revisit to a collection of tunes remixed at an Asbury Park studio by Steve Greenwell, remastered by Steve Puntolillo in a Freehold, NJ studio for the 10th Anniversary reissue of what was Mr Forbert’s 16th studio LP, 2015’s Compromised.
The songs haven’t drastically changed or been tampered with. More of a tweak, as Steve said, a “few touches” that were in order. It also features a cover of the classic Steven Sondheim song “Send in the Clowns.” You wouldn’t think a Broadway show tune would be in Steve’s wheelhouse, but it’s the melody & words that conform to Forbert’s style. It’s not quite as poignant as Judy Collins’s or as fluent as a Broadway singer at the footlights under the spotlight, but Steve’s sandpapery voice is warm & has the necessary sincerity to fit his repertoire. No snore-factor here, Steve asserts himself well throughout.
On this self-produced showcase, The Things That I See (Drops Dec 12/Rolling Tide Records/44:15), there are 12 songs proper with one new bonus single. Horns abound on some compositions & Steve’s harmonica is still rootsy & evident on the percussive “Rollin’ Home To Someone You Love.” In typical Forbert style.
“A Big Comeuppance” has a jazzy piano run, silky horns & Steve’s folky tenor in its aggressive gear. I always liked Steve’s vocals when he added a little high-test octane to his tone. He’s a far better rocker than many give him credit for (“Runnin’ On Love” & “Evergreen Boy”). Returning to the light melodic flavor of his early classics like “Romeo’s Tune,” from “Jackrabbit Slim” is “When I Get To California,” & “Whatever, Man.” Both with good lyrics & a modern-folky melody-rich approach.
Steve isn’t Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan or John Mellencamp. Instead, I always heard him as a true original, with his own veracity. Creative with his music, vocals & song topicality. Over the years, his voice has gotten a bit gruffer, mature & incisive (“Drink Red Wine”). I guess that comes with experience. He’s retained his troubadour standing, his balladeer stance & his rock balls. He’s a bit closer to Eric Andersen if he had to be lumped into a respectable category.
An upbeat, delightful “Devil (Here She Comes Now),” echoes the classic line “devil with a blue dress…” & Steve unveils a cool nostalgic rocker with mandolin & a fine vocal that’s hand-clapping/foot stomping good. Steve’s always been a good storyteller & these songs are loaded with interesting tales.
Highlights – “Compromise,” “A Big Comeuppance,” “When I Get To California,” “Drink Red Wine,” “Rollin’ Home To Someone You Love,” “Devil (Here She Comes Now)” & “Whatever, Man.”
Musicians – On remixes: Byron House (upright bass), Rob Clores (piano) & Aaron Comess (drums). Plus from the original recording: Joey Spampinato (bass), Lou Cataldo (drums) & Robbie Kondor (keys).
CD @ Amazon & Target + https://www.steveforbert.com/category/the-things-that-i-see-x
