Is Jeffrey Gaines the real deal or Elvis Costello redux? On the Pennsylvania singer-songwriter's third full-length release, his subtly soulful vocals often echo those of the esteemed Elvis. But that's where their similarit... more »ies end. While his hero's cynical wordplays circle the romantic cul-de-sac, Gaines's rock-tinged pop takes a cautiously optimistic tone. He speeds freely on the freeway of love, but remains mindful of the potholes. Whether backed by studio hotshots (including members of David Bowie's touring outfit and ex-Springsteen E-Streeter David Sancious) or a string section, Gaines's supple songs shine. --Michael Evans« less
Is Jeffrey Gaines the real deal or Elvis Costello redux? On the Pennsylvania singer-songwriter's third full-length release, his subtly soulful vocals often echo those of the esteemed Elvis. But that's where their similarities end. While his hero's cynical wordplays circle the romantic cul-de-sac, Gaines's rock-tinged pop takes a cautiously optimistic tone. He speeds freely on the freeway of love, but remains mindful of the potholes. Whether backed by studio hotshots (including members of David Bowie's touring outfit and ex-Springsteen E-Streeter David Sancious) or a string section, Gaines's supple songs shine. --Michael Evans
Matthew C. (CoopXL) from KENOSHA, WI Reviewed on 8/21/2009...
This is one of my desert island discs. Jeffrey Gaines is such a gifted singer/songwriter it's a shame he isn't more widely known.
I first discovered Gaines when his second album, "Somewhat Slightly Dazed", came out. I was pretty excited for new material and bought "Galore" right when it was released. It exceeded all my expectations. "SSD" is a great album, but "Galore" is better. Perhaps it comes from a sense of confidence in his talents. This is the type of album that only someone sure of himself can make.
The band sounds great and the production is full and rich, but some of the best moments are the more stripped down songs: "A Simple Prayer", "Praise or Blame", "Toast and Tea", and "Leave Her to Me".
The bonus disc includes a live version of Peter Gabriel's "In Your Eyes" that was re-released on his next CD "Always Be". When it was appeared on "Always Be" it became Gaines's biggest hit and helped him break modestly into the mainstream.
CD Reviews
Incredible ear candy
Carie Guppy | Japan | 01/25/2000
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I first listened to Jefferey Gaines in concert in 1993. I had heard "Hero in Me" on the radio and was hooked. After seeing him live, I ran out and bought the album. Since then, I've been telling people that if I ever lived on a deserted island and could only listen to one CD for the rest of my life, it would be Jefferey Gaines, Self-Titled. Now I would have a hard time choosing between the first album and Galore. What a master of vocals, guitar and lyrics! The man is a genius."
Most excellent
Carie Guppy | 08/07/1998
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Saw Jeffrey on stage - just him and his guitar. He did this whole recording and everything was excellent. His musical style, sense of humor and interesting lyrics make you hang on each song listening for something new everytime you listen. If you like Suzanne Vega, Seal or Sting, you will like Jeffrey Gaines."
A Very Under Appreciated Album. Without a Doubt, His Best
Eppie Bass | MA | 02/15/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Galore is an exceptional album. The songs are very well crafted, but not too polished. Jeff gives a full album experience, once you put it in your disc player, you can't get it out. Every song speaks to you. Toast and Tea is probably the best song he's written. Forget the comparisons to Elvis Costello. This album is in my top five of all time!"
The real deal
Author Brian Wallace (Mind Transmis | Texas | 03/26/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"a beautiful and thoughtful album that features the key players from David Bowie's band (one of its incarnations). Gaines brings a soulful edge and strong songwriting to this work. It has a folksy and bluesy sound that eschews the commercialism of other popular male black vocalists. Galore is substantial and authentic - very refreshing and lasting.
"
INTELLECT, INSIGHT AND SENSITIVITY
Author Brian Wallace (Mind Transmis | 10/04/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is my favorite of all. I am reminded of Roberta Flack's lines "as if he knew me" and "singing my life with his words". You get the impression that if you were in a moment with him, that he would not miss anything while the rest of the room would notice nothing. He forgot to put on his blinders and slam his mind shut against reality like so many people do. He appears to take an honest look at life and himself and have a kindness that will touch your heart. "Toast and Tea" and "Love Her Inside" will hit home with women everywhere. Several of us started out in the first situation and landed in the later. Not loved enough by a man we loved, we developed a protective shell that kept us from what we wanted so badly. I think the woman still has a pearl on the inside.........."