Bob Burger is quite a busy guy. Aside from holding membership in New Jersey’s top band, the Weeklings, he also claims an artistically satisfying solo career. The singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist’s current and fifth album, The Domino Effect (JEM Records), files in as a stone-cold testimony to his passion and comprehension of prescriptive pop rock, especially of the late ’70s, early ’80s ilk.
Equipped with a melodic rasp situated in the vein of both Don Henley and Tom Petty, Burger conveys his attentively crafted material in a spirited and coherent manner. Staying in form with the music, the lyrics – which reveal a psychological awareness often laced with humor – are direct and bleed with worldwide allure.
Ignited by a blush of bluesy guitar riffs and swaying rhythms, “The Suicide King” lifts the lid on The Domino Effect in faultless fettle, tailgated by “Impression,” a new wave-styled number sliced of scuttling keyboards and a repetitious but persistently catchy beat.
Gleaming with spark and light, “Even If You Don’t” and “Merely Beautiful” are first-class guitar-based essays, deftly supported by cracking patterns and attractive hooks. Dictated by an urgent bounce and an infectious sing-a-long chorus, “Pain in the Ass” and the slinky and sinister groove of “The One-Eyed Jack” reel in as other outstanding cuts to be admired.
A twangy country feel surrounds the toe-tapping timbre of “I’m Free,” and then there’s “Rock & Roll Band,” which proves to be a fitting end to the program. Vibrating with high energy, cool licks and in-the-pocket harmonies, the punchy track communicates Burger’s ongoing devotion to music, stating how playing in bands has kept him sane all these years.
Powered by virile vocals, creative arrangements and skintight instrumentation, The Domino Effect harks back to the days when every song on an album exerted serviceable qualities. After hearing this perfected piece of ear candy, you’ll wonder why Bob Burger isn’t a big star. Perhaps The Domino Effect is the album that will glean him the riches he so obviously commands.
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