Post by jptheprofessor on Sept 4, 2006 22:46:22 GMT -5
MICHAEL REICH – WRITING ON THE WALL (Attack Music) Somerset County-based singer, songwriter and guitarist Michael Reich has enjoyed increasing success on his progression of albums, as his music reaches a wider audience and sphere of music industry ears. On his latest album, Writing On The Wall, Reich hooks up with veteran Canadian producer Mark S. Berry (David Bowie, Duran Duran, Billy Idol), revisits and updates a number of songs from his catalog. His collaboration with Berry streamlines Reich's creations and gets to their basic essence, while fleshing out the arrangements and giving them depth and color. Berry gives more fullness and rocking muscle to Reich's recording industry commentary "Turning On A Dime" and his information age ode "Wireless." Likewise, the contemplative "Live For Today" and "Dare I Complain" benefit from a more robust Americana sound, and keyboards subtly bolster the surf-edged "Century Man." Berry's production also emphasizes Reich's tenderness and warmth on the ballad "Before I Let It Go," and brightens the happy-go-lucky flavor of "Where True Lovers Hide." Reich introduces two new songs on the album, the punchy "Living Day to Day," about coping with modern-day living; and the blues-rooted essay on media doublespeak, "Spin." The album finishes with Reich's uplifting update of Neil Young's "Heart Of Gold." Recorded at Zolis Audio in Toronto, Writing On The Wall sounds clean and full. Berry's production complements and supports Reich's deep baritone voice, keeping it clear, front and center in the mix. While Berry fleshes out the arrangements, he never overwhelms the sound with too many studio bells and whistles, enabling the strength of Reich’s melodies and lyrical edge to shine through. [Writing On The Wall reflects on where Michael Reich has been musically, but also shows his progress and growth as he hones and refines his sound. The results again reaffirm Reich as one of this state’s brightest songsmiths; an artist with something to say and the tools to say it with clarity and impact. (Can be obtained by visiting Michael Reich’s website, www.michael-reich.com.)