There are times when GLENN.T.HUBBARD (http://www.thehubbardconcept.com) sounds so much like Steely Dan that it's enough to create an identity crisis. And that shouldn't be taken as an insult because anybody coming close to capturing the complex, enigmatic puzzle of Steely Dan is worthy of applause.
In Hubbard's case, the similarity is a loving one; you can feel his affection for his heroes, especially on "Don't Talk to Me" and "Castro and the Pope," the latter a total dead ringer for Steely Dan.
Hubbard's brand of jazzy rock & roll brims with sophistication, good taste, and iron-solid craftsmanship. Comparisons can be made to the progressive rock of the '70s, to groups like Yes and Supertramp, in terms of their arty arrangements and Beatlesque pop hooks. However, don't interpret that as being dated; the production here is sleek and modern, and "Waiting for You" could've been on a Barenaked Ladies' record.
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The ambition and musical skill on display here provides a much-needed jolt to a creatively stagnant music scene. I am stoked to hear more from Hubbard in the future. For now, I shall blast the blazing horns on "Concrete World" with the enthusiasm of a kid buying his first record.
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