CANDLES ON THE RIVER
Howard Gladstone's simple, folk roots songs, with a country rock twist, are presented with trademark frankness. With a craftsman approach to lyric writing, Gladstone presents vivid locales, and interesting characters and t [+]CANDLES ON THE RIVER
Howard Gladstone's simple, folk roots songs, with a country rock twist, are presented with trademark frankness. With a craftsman approach to lyric writing, Gladstone presents vivid locales, and interesting characters and their stories
A one-time music reviewer who interviewed Robbie Robertson for Rolling Stone, Gladstone approaches his subject matter as a seasoned journalist would: with an eye for detail, a sense of story and a desire for objectivity. He sticks to the facts, tells it like it is and maintains a measured and slightly detached quality in his vocal delivery.
A man who loves to travel, Gladstone takes inspiration from such locales as India, the US South, and Newfoundland.
Gladstone's concern for social issues is deeply etched in his songs, from native rights issues ("Aboriginal Burial Ground"), to fetal alcohol spectrum disorder ("Damaged Angel") to the closing of Maritime fisheries ("Fishin' by the Book") to globalization and corporate indifference ("Goin' Offshore").
" Prisoner of New Orleans" and "Photograph" are atmospheric, moody songs with an air of mystery. " Down to the Delta" surveys the history of the blues and wonders where that music is going. The title track "Candles on the River" takes its inspiration and rhythm from a sunrise Gladstone observed in India.
The albums' 11 tracks feature unadorned production and solid ensemble performances. Gladstone provides vocals and acoustic guitar. Tony Quarrington, co-produced the album, and contributes guitar and mandolin. Denis Keldie plays Hammond B3 organ, piano, and accordion. The rhythm section of Russ Boswell on acoustic stand-up bass and Al Cross on drums adds a tasteful no-nonsense bottom end. Guests include Anne Lindsay on violin, the late Eddie Baltimore on slide-guitar, Clela Errington and Alan Soberman on backup vocals, and Bruce Longman. Many of the tracks were recorded in a single take, with minimal overdubs.
"Howard Gladstone, with the help of some stellar musicians,
has produced a worthy CD of personal reflections and topical song" - Jerry Tenenbaum, posted to Band's website
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