As a reviewer for PoplifeSTL, I have to date reviewed theater, usually but not exclusively of the musical and opera varieties. I have the freedom to review other arts, including music. In 2022, I begin reviewing select performances of the St. Louis Symphony.
One of the things I didn’t state in my review was how cinematic this album is. As good as Covelli’s lyrics are and as good as they are sung by Matt Krieg, the music stands alone. To sit back and listen, I know I could conjure short films about each of these songs.
Just today, PoplifeSTL published my first album review in quite some time. I am a music omnivore with iTunes playlists galore that range from classical to alt-country. I use music the way some folks use skin moisturizer — to soothe or enhance whatever mood I’m in.
Since my teenaged years, the two things I can’t pass up are albums (then CDs, then MP3s) and books. Based on recommendations from readings or from soundtracks in TV shows, films and commercials, I stumble across new music all the time.
I can’t claim to be a devoted jazz listener, though I’m told I know more and listen to more jazz than your average bear. The spectrum of my listening ranges from early Armstrong to Davis to David Sanborn (don’t judge). I happened upon the Hard Bop Messengers and their new, first album “Live At The Last Hotel” through the band’s leader, John Covelli. I knew he was creating the album during the past couple of years. When it was complete, he shared a copy with me. Whether I have a personal connection or not, I would have reviewed this album. It deserves to be heard — even more widely than it already has.
I was the photographer for a local folk/Americana band, and I know how hard it is to garner interest in a band. I attended a few performances with a only a dozen or so in the audience — and most of them were family and friends. This, after extensive “publicity” on social media and local arts calendars. It’s damn HARD to get people to show and/or purchase an album, no matter how good the band is.
This review is my humble way of helping to spread the word about a group of world-class musicians creating and performing work that deserves a wider audience. Read it here.