Enjoyable
The Delite Rancher | Phoenix, Arizona | 04/20/2007
(3 out of 5 stars)
"Page McConnell's new album is what you'd expect. The song writing is mediocre while the improvisation is strong. Most songs sound like they could have been penned during the Vida Blue era or the last five years of Phish. In other words, there is no 'Cars Trucks Buses' or even a 'Most Events Aren't Planned.' The album follows McConnell's usual style of rock with flavors of funk and psychedelia. The use of electronic drum beats may be the unexpected dynamic. The issue with "Page McConnell" is that it is a solo album by a great accompanying musician. There's nothing wrong with the disc, it's simply that there are no significant stand-outs. "Page McConnell" is an enjoyable listen that probably won't get heavy rotation."
Enjoyable
RP | Seattle | 05/20/2007
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This CD showcases Page's talent, creativity and musicianship in a way that reminds me why I loved listening to him play in Phish so much.
The songs are tight while still conveying an improvisational, jammy feel that works well. Page's piano playing is the highlight for me. On some tracks, he adds synthesizer and other fun instruments (including "toy piano") for cool, sound-enhancing effects. The lyrics are decent enough: heartfelt without being (overly) cheesy. The instrumental, improvisational reunion jam, "Back in the Basement", is a great mid-album highlight.
Despite a solid effort, there are a few weak tracks here. The album fades towards the end and I get slightly tired of Page's voice for a full album (perhaps a duet or two would have been nice).
Overall, this is a worthwhile buy and a nice branch-out addition to my CD collection."
A good attempt as a solo artist
M. VANETTEN | Spring Lake, New Jersey | 04/18/2007
(4 out of 5 stars)
"I personally enjoy this album a lot. But do not listen to this album hoping to hear a authentic phish sound because you won't. It's a very "Page" sounding album. But as anyone who is probably buying this album knows, music by an artist like Page McConnell can't be appreciated at less in the live format. I personally own SIRIUS radio and caught his live performances on air. I am really psyched to catch him this summer. The highlight on the album for me is "Heavy Rotation". I recommend giving it a listen, it's worth it."