Search - Fred Haring :: Ghosttowns and Kingdoms

Solid writing...

chuckbrowndotcom | 12/10/1999

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Fred is a good friend and a fine young writer. He has really crafted some very nice moments on this album. My favorite is Where to Begin...a really sweet melody. If you find that The Backstreet Boys speak profound truths to your life, this album probably is not for you. But if you like honest, witty songwriting (artists such as David Wilcox and John Gorka), this album is very much worth your time. A compelling debut."

Strong songs, solid producton. Good stuff!

chuckbrowndotcom | 05/28/1999

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I have had this album since it came out...and I've become very familiar with the songs. It's nice to hear stuff that challenges your thinking. Most of the songs on the radio are pretty poorly-crafted, and the lyrics are just empty. Even the good writers sound witty and insightful, but it's like they don't have much to talk about...or at least anything that touches me personally. But on songs like "Hey Joe Carter", Fred talks about how awkward it feels for him ("a have") to hang around a friend ("a have-not") and try to pretend that everything is fair and right. That's not an easy thing to reveal about yourself, but he is able to pull some good from the experience. My personal favorite, though, is "Where to Begin". The lyrics are very compelling...about being seen and exposed for what you're really like inside...but hoping to be accepted and even loved anyway. It's got a really beautiful melody that's given me goosebumps more than once listening to it. This album is definitely worth hearing."