|
Hal Ketchum's recent outing The King Of Love boasts
15 tracks on this his 6th album. The first single off the
album "Everytime I Look In Your Eyes" sets the
CD in motion and is to be featured in Sylvester Stallone's
new movie. Franke Previte & Dusty Micale writes this
track with all other tracks being written or co-written
by Ketchum.
"Run Loretta Run" is a cracking track with
a stinging be-bop styling. A fine duet is found on "As
Long As You Love Me", but it isn't made clear in the
liner notes as to who the female vocalist is. The magnetism
of Hal Ketchum, who has been sited as the "poet laureate
of country music" delights the senses with a feast
of new material. "On Her Own Time" and "God
Makes Stars" commands approval with unimagined flashes
of brilliance shining through with the simple whistling
tune of "The Ruby And The Rose" accompanied by
the beat of the conga.
Guy Clark with his distinctive vocals joins Hal Ketchum
to duet on Ketchum's "The Carpenter's Way", while
the dark and moody, "Evangeline" is a collaboration
between Hal Ketchum and Charlie Daniels. Starting the last
track with a child's' laughter, "The Angel Song"
with just an acoustic guitar backing delves into the emotions
of being a dad, eloquently disclosing, "never run faster
than your angels can fly".
As always Hal Ketchum's songwriting is tight and polished
with a hint of sophistication. The changing textures throughout
The King Of Love creates s totally absorbing album with
a kaleidoscope of country, blues and a jazz styles that
pushes the envelope wider to leave you lingering for more.
|
