Singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Gary Go’s eponymous
debut is fine-tuned power-pop at its best. On his new
album, the U.K.-born songsmith (and iPhone music app expert)
fuses deft production with emotionally charged songwriting,
delivering a soaring set of polished pop hits. Go shines here as
both writer and performer. Supported by a band of ace session ringers, Go’s
originals span the stylistic as well as emotional divide. Tracks like “Open Arms,”
“So So,” and “Wonderful” (the album’s first single) brim with kinetic energy, taking
their production cues from past hits by perennial favorites like U2 and Coldplay.
“Life Gets In the Way” injects a vintage vibe by way of a swirling Hammond
organ. And on “Brooklyn,” the introspective songsmith turns the volume down
with a string-drenched piano ballad. Recommended. Jon Regen
(Decca Records,
whoisgarygo.com )