Michael Houser - Door Harp (14 tracks) +Album Reviews

Sublime instumental musings

Craig Fisher | USA | 09/24/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Michael Houser's (of Widespread Panic and brute. fame) posthumous release Door Harp is a unique and interesting collection of 14 instrumentals, played largely by Mikey (who plays guitar, mandolin, and piano here), Sonny on percussion, and John Keane on pedal steel, keyboards, and guitar. There is violin and cello added in as well. Mikey's songs, instrumentals, and guitar playing always seemed to rise above their structural simplicity, as do these offerings. For example, a number of the tunes melodically rock back and forth between two chords, with a cool transitional chord or two thrown in the mix. Still, they deliver with a certain basic charm. These songs are much sparser than any of WSP's instrumentals like La, Party at Your Mama's House, or even A of D. Stripped of amplification, distortion, bass, and drums the music at times evokes a chamber concert-like atmosphere, or even the door harp of the album's namesake. Two songs that stand out for me are "Cleburne Terrace", a sweet tune that finds the only vocals on the album, what sounds like Mikey humming in the breeze. "The Owl's Song" is great as well, and evokes the Allman's "Little Martha" before taking a darker turn while layering in some spacey violin. Appreciate the music for what it is. Subtle musical sketches from a beautiful guy who is no longer with us. While the album lacks the integration of cohesion and range that makes for classic albums (thus only 4 stars), each song provides its own reward. For those of you looking for some full-on WSP, well, rock music it ain't. Don't expect unreleased Mikey originals like Burned Faceless or It Was You, you will be sorely disappointed. We miss you tremendously Mikey."

A Touching Reflection of a Kind Soul

M. Labuda | Montgomery Co., MD | 01/02/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I am a long time fan of Widespread Panic, and the passing of Mikey was devastating news. When I heard a record was produced just before he died and intended was for a posthumous release, I was anxious to hear what had been created. The result is a well-produced introspective glimpse into the private world of Michael Houser - an understated, elegant acoustic exploration that highlights his ability to evoke emotion through music. The strength of his compositions lies in their simple, unpretentious melodies. The tracks "Change in the Weather," "Eva's Song" and "Westerly Wind" have a lullaby quality (my six-week old son finds them quite soothing), which I'm sure was intentional given his love and dedication for his children. Other tracks such as "Barbette's Song," "Lullaby for NYC" and "Spanish Gold" showcase his ability to speak volumes with very few notes. Those expecting the driving guitar lines that swirled throughout Panic's live shows will be in for shock. The exact opposite is presented; we are given the vulnerable side of Michael Houser, voiced in a humble, yet powerful manner. Just a word to Mr. Gaputis; while I respect your opinion, I think your words are a little harsh. "Mindless drivel?" "Inane tunes?" "Pretentious nonsense?" If you were to take the same amount of time you placed into listening to the CD to find out a little about the man responsible for this music, you may not be so quick to pass judgment and enjoy it for what it represents. I consider myself to be musically well versed. To make a blanket statement equating one's enjoyment of this CD to a lack of musical exposure shows nothing more than ignorance on your part."

The Missing Piece

G. D. Barnhart | Commonwealth of Virginia | 04/22/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

""Mindless Drivel"'s son has great taste. WP is still one of the greatest bands of all times but the passing of Houser truly shows the power he added to the mix. Finding this disc was a godsend; it has all of the emotional strengths missing from much of Panic's new stage and studio work. Play this disc quietly as you are finishing up some work or sitting around the campfire. Play this disc with considerable volume in the car and let the stringplay raise the hairs on your neck. Some music makes you *need* to sing. This work makes me hum (poorly) every time. The most artful and appreciable quality of Houser's solo effort is the inherent simplicity. Buy this album. Buy two copies--you may wear one out. I offer the same advice as "Mindless Drivel." Listen before you buy. In doing so, you can assure yourself that you are making a great decision."

Great music to relax to.

TJ | VT | 08/01/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a great CD. Michael Houser (Widespread Panic, Brute) was a great musician. This solo album that was released posthumously, only adds to that fact. It isn't too complicated, it's sweet, mellow and has a great laid back vibe. Every track is great. Each song has it's own emotion and you never feel like you've missed something. Unless you can't relax and let go by hearing great music.

Just to remark on a few of the songs,"Missoula" Opens the album with a song that to me, has a great "autumn" feel. Each time I hear it, I think of the Fall. Leaves changing, long walks down a dirt road, the smell of apple pies and woodstoves in the air. It is definitely something that I love about New England and this song brings me home each time.

"Eva's Song" has a nice piano piece with added strings in various spots. It has a very relaxed feel and reminds me of waking, or a birth.

"Barbette's Song" A nice acoustic guitar piece w/ added guitars & percussion (perc. added by Domingo "Sonny" Ortiz also of Widespread Panic) adds a great touch.

"Old #1" This has a summer night by the campfire feel. Great playing all around. Upbeat, and hopeful.

"Cleburne Terrace" is one of my favorites on this album. The guitar work is really good, and the vibe is really sweet. The addition of vocalizations in various parts are really a tasteful touch. It has a combination of vibes to me. Upbeat, mellow, anxious yet in no hurry at all. Michael Houser was a great musician.

"Door Harp" the title track again captures the spirit of hope, and also a mellow jump into the unknown. If acoustical instrumentals are for you, do yourself a favor and check this out. As I write this I'm listening to it, and can imagine myself in a field just chillin' out and watching the clouds pass by. For me, if the music can take you places and entertain you, it's good. This, is good.

This entire album is great. If you've never heard of Widespread Panic, or Michael Houser You're doing yourself an injustice by not checking them out! Anyone open enough to try something new, if they've never heard it and can objectively listen without whining because it may or may not be what they normally hear will likely find this is truly a great album.

Mikey's "Door Harp" is definitely NOT what you'll hear on any Panic album, but it does show his versatility and musicianship. Plus, it's a great stress reliever!

This entire album reminds me of the certain times of the year. Reflecting on the past, and also looking ahead. Highly recommended listening"

Thanks Mikey, beautiful songs!

Christopher | Boudler | 11/18/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"An enchanting glimpse into Houser's softer side...haunting and forlorn, not unlike his guitar work with Panic. A facet of Mikey's talent we sensed but never heard is revealed through spare yet inspiring arrangements. The timing of this album's release is perfect; I cannot imagine a more poignantly beautiful final offering. Thank you Michael, we all miss you."

Search - Michael Houser :: Door Harp

CD Details

Similarly Requested CDs

CD Reviews

	Michael Houser Door Harp Genres: Pop, Rock Track Listings (14) - Disc #1 MISSOULA EVA'S SONG BARBETTE'S SONG SPANISH GOLD OLD #1 THE WESTERLY WIND CLEBURNE TERRACE DOOR HARP FALL LINE THE OWL'S SONG THE MUSIC BOX LULLABY FOR NYC A CHANGE IN THE WEATHER QUIETUDE
? Larger Image