DANIEL CAGE
Loud On Earth (MCA)
Reviewed by Shaun Dale

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Daniel Cage seems to have drawn the title of this album more from the production of the music than the topic of the music. The lyrical content focuses on the relative absence or presence of light in a problematic relationship. The story is told, though, through big, anthemic statements that are in fact best appreciated at some considerable volume.

Cage's production, with assists from Phil Nicolo (Diswalla, 16 Horsepower) and Kevin Killen (U2, Peter Gabriel), isn't so much a wall of sound as curtains of sound. From the translucence of a gauze scrim to the depth of heavy black drapes, Cage's keyboards are augmented by bass, drums, percussion, as many as four guitars and a string section. When it's all at play, it's as dense as concrete--but before it becomes oppressive, one or more curtains lift and the backdrop shifts.

The overall impact gives the songs a quality of importance that provokes a closer look at the tale Cage is telling. His lyrics are literate, confessional and emotionally compelling. This is an album worth repeated listenings, and it's enjoyable enough to inspire them.

Track List:

Sleepwalking * Big Blue Sky * Burn * The First Time * Only You * You Set Me Free * Never Come Down * Hannah * Heaven And Earth * One Step Closer To You * Fade Away

© 2000 - Shaun Dale