Return of Boy Wonder
Marc Kloszewski | Indiana, PA United States | 02/07/2003
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Here's the second solo album from Emitt, whose first album was (from what I read) widely compared to Paul McCartney's first solo album, i.e. the discs being one-man shows and all...Paul holed up in his private studio, and Emitt recorded these lovely tunes in his mother's garage. And, as many people will tell you, these songs compare very favorably with what Paul was putting out at the time. Emitt has a natural knack for sunny melodies just like McCartney does...though it seems as though he never got his due (partly owing to his perfectionist nature combined with an impatient record label--Dunhill). There's one song on here that every pop fan should hear before they die--"Really Wanted You." Groove to the funky, poppy beat, admire the interplay between acoustic and electric guitar, sing along with the cheery lyrics, and be impressed by how tight the band is, then recall that there is no band--it's all Emitt. It's one of my all-time favorite tracks. Also excellent are "Golden Child of God" (love the way he keeps this moderate but steady groove interesting by gradually adding instruments throughout), and the gorgeously moody ballad "Love Will Stone You," with plaintive piano. These are the best of the bunch (oh, and "Take You Far Away" makes for a great rideout as well), but even when shows his young age on (still) more lightweight fare ("Bubblegum the Blues," "I'm a Cruiser"), it's musically excellent overall--prime pop!! You will enjoy it--if you're able to track it down! You could always buy it here..."
Underrated
Beth | Mesa, AZ United States | 01/18/2003
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Emitt Rhodes is accused of being a Paul McCartney sound alike. While Emitt "copied" Paul's style, he deserves a break. He
did this sound with just as much enthusiasm as its creator if not more. It's best to get the LP for this. There are some nice photos on the sleeve.
The most McCartney like song is Birthday Lady. But "Love will Stone you" separates him from the sound somewhat, a beautiful haunting song.
While his first self titled album is better reviewed, in my opinion this is the strongest of the two. This is more polished. Emitt never achieved the success he deserved. Perhaps it's best Emitt didn't have major success. He probably remained more down to earth as a result. On his first album you can see "Recorded at Home" on the end of the record and I can't lie I got a warm fuzzy feeling from that."
Track Listings (10) - Disc #1