MICHAEL STANLEY
American Road (Line Level Music)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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American Road, the sizzling successor to Michael Stanley's wonderful 2003 release The Ground, displays all of the artist's considerable talents. This release has exquisite lyrics that tell captivating stories, great rock music, and a flawless articulation of Stanley's mature vision. Stanley, over 50 years old, is like a fine wine, aging well.

Stanley wrote 10 of the 13 songs on this CD, plus co-authored an additional two. The only tune he didn't create is the classic Ronettes' number from the early 1960s "Be My Baby." All the songs have an almost perfect blend of lyrics and music; they are superbly crafted pieces that, as a whole, make American Road a thoughtful and emotional listening experience. Stanley is joined on this CD by old friends and ex-band members Danny Powers on guitars; Bob Pelander on keyboards and bass; Tommy Dobeck on drums; plus additional musicians as needed. This collaboration lends credence to the notion that familiarity breeds success.

American Road opens with "Nothing And Everything To Prove." This absorbing song sets the stage for the entire album and is a compound metaphor for Stanley's career; the country's current administration and its myopic policies; and the human condition in general. The song hits hard but accurately. The rest of the CD maintains this intensely emotional tempo.

American Road is great rock music, with intelligent, passionate lyrics wonderfully integrated with hard-driving music. Do yourself a favor and discover Michael Stanley. You'll be profoundly glad you did.

[Pick this up at www.michaelstanley.com.]

© 2005 - Ron Saranich