John Larson and The Silver Fields

John Larson “Songs About Music”
As long time frontman for The Marlowes, John Larson has plenty of stories about life as working musician. With the help of his bandmate Justin Capaldi and Mick Chorba (The Dispomaniacs), he puts these observations in his new solo LP. Larson opens with the hook filled “Girl in the Band,” about a hook up at a music convention. “They’re Not Writing Country (In This Country Anymore)” is a pretty accurate jab at the current commercial country rock scene.
John’s vocal is limited in range, but clear and best used on “Kiss and Yell” and “Billy and Wiggy” a description of meeting Billy Bragg’s brother. The harmonies and lead work to great effect on the melodic “She Just Wants To Talk” and the obsessive thoughts of a vinyl record collector “Track You Down” combines a vintage Zombies-styled organ melody with a sing-along chorus. “The Lifer” is a gorgeous autobiographical ballad that has echoes of Van Morrison and Lou Reed about how “the critic’s darling” can’t afford to even get gas for the car. Many musicians hearing this album will nod in agreement – a strong effort by a veteran road warrior. - Powerpopaholic.com

John Larson writes and plays classic power-pop, country, and Paul Simon-like soul stirrers with equal ease. “Girl in the Band,” with its big bass bottom and Beach Boys backing vocals is a terrific driving-around song. “They’re Not Writing Country (In This Country Anymore)” would not be out of place on a Toby Keith record as Larson asks the musical question, “What ever happened to George Jones?” “Kiss and Yell” combines a muscular power pop head and bridge with a Chinese opera interlude not unlike The Move. “Billy and Wiggy” uses lilting pedal steel guitar to reprise the tale of Ziggy Stardust with an American accent.
“Havana Won’t Know” has a Youngbloods vibe. “Let’s Just Call It Love” could be the theme song to John Hughes movie. “Track You Down” combines Yardbirds sneer with a sunny major chord bridge. “The Lifer” is piano-based pop as heartbreaking as anything by Paul Simon.
Four stars. - Pop Geek Heaven