RICHARD KAUFMANN
Common Senses (Record Cellar)
Reviewed by Erick Mertz

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Richard Kaufmann's newest album Common Senses from Philadelphia's Record Cellar label is a rich, eclectic piece of contemporary country carved out of a similar workman's rock niche as Billy Bragg. Bounding between moments of sweeping beauty and barroom bravado, Common Senses takes few chances except its escape from commonality.

There is a lot of interesting music smattered throughout the thirty five-minute disc. Blending pianos and peddle steel guitars expertly with rock and roll riffs lends Common Places a sense of emotional maturity. "Ruby Sue" is mournful and plaintive without being heavy-handed; the loving refrain of "Greenlaw Neck" is laid out in casual, snappy tones. This emotional undercurrent however, doesn't come at the expense of a sense of humor. "You Never Listen" is a barrel-chested frolic and "She Hurt It Here First" plays a game of one-upmanship with snappy barbs. In places, Kaufmann wears his musical influences on his sleeve. "The All Fools Dances" is reminiscent of the upbeat piano jangle of Van Morrison, but not so much that the album feels like it leans on anyone else's legacy. Common Senses ultimately stands alone and is certainly worthy of repeated listens on its own merits.

© 2002 - Erick Mertz