Jeff Caudill’s second solo album is maybe best described as a labour of love. Artists simply don’t come more independent than this Californian, and that’s no bad thing. From song-writing through to production and graphic design, it might all take a little longer, but the freedom allows Caudill to wear his heart on his sleeve and answer to no one.
Kicking off with the title song - an ode to his young daughter - the theme of the album is finding comfort in your family and own skin, topics which are bound to strike a chord with Caudill’s fanbase, and provide something for new fans to latch onto. If it all sounds like he's gone soft, nothing could be further from the truth, with the album being a triumphant blend of indie, pop and country. ‘Remember the Time’ harks back to former band, Gameface, with its rough and ready harmonies and memorable chorus which shows he’s lost none of his fire, whilst ‘I Was The Lead Singer’ is a more wistful look back to bygone days. Elsewhere, the album is a both a continuation and advancement on his debut. Channelling great Americana bands like The Replacements and The Lemonheads with his own pop sensibility on ‘Transition City’ is trademark Caudill and sounds familiar and warm. Elsewhere, album closer ‘All Things New’ is a piano-led ballad which represents new territory and possibly hints at things to come.
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Freed from the constraints of record labels, management and all the other things that can drag musicians down, this is the sound of a man at work, embracing his autonomy to make a great record. If you like your music to have heart, passion and no little craft, seek this album out.
www.jeffcaudill.com
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