There's fake country music, and then there's Tokyo Rosenthal (http://www.tokyorosenthal.com). On "One Score and Ten," Rosenthal's voice is thrust into the front of the mix, and there's no need to figure out why. This man can truly sing. Not a flashy vocalist by any means, but Rosenthal can draw you into his lyrics in the much the same way that James Taylor and Don Henley can. You want to know what he's singing about because his voice captivates you. It's raw and in your face yet is in tune with the subtleties of human emotion. Rosenthal knows his limitations and how to harness his strengths. That's the sign of a true artist.
And, really, it doesn't get too much better than "One Score and Ten." In fact, this CD is among the year's best albums, no matter what the genre. Opening up with the sly Doors homage of "My Reflection" (wherein you will hear "Break On Through" haunting the flow of strummed guitars), Rosenthal already shows what he's capable of with his stunning way with words; there's a swagger in his delivery that takes command not only of the song but your attention as well. The guitar work on "My Reflection" is mesmerizing, too, as Rosenthal shifts from acoustic propulsion to an electric bonfire.
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Rosenthal is a storyteller, and a fine one at that. The deceptively upbeat "You're Dead to Me Now" and "Long Ago I Knew Someone Like You" have emotionally stirring narratives, and even "Edmonton" can appeal to people who've never been there.
The production is clean and crisp throughout with an emphasis on Rosenthal's crystalline vocals.
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