MARCH 2010 ONLINE EDITORIALS

Joe Lee Parker - Acoustic

album cover

By Joshua Espinoza

In his latest full-length acoustic album, it is obvious Joe Lee Parker takes pride in his ability to appreciate the simpler things in life. What’s even more apparent is he is also quite proud of the CD’s slow burning opener, “The Day.” So much so that he reuses it 12 more times for the rest of the album under different titles. To say Parker understands and utilizes the concept of repetition would be an understatement.
While it is sometimes difficult for an artist to produce a work that seamlessly drifts from track to track, it is even more difficult for an artist to avoid monotony – especially in music of the acoustic variety; sadly, the CD falls victim to the latter occurrence and is unable to escape predictability and dullness. Although the collection is void of any nuance, Parker’s deliverance is refreshingly endearing. He plays his guitar in a simplistic, subdued fashion, free of any domineering force, yet completely confident. His lethargic instrumentations are layered over unassuming lyrics conveyed through his low, quivering voice. Though bestowed with noticeable range limits, Parker’s reverberated trill is nothing short of unique and proves that bravado is unnecessary to please the ear. But, unfortunately, what’s necessary to please the mind is diversity.
Simply content to stick with the classic formula of tranquil strumming and plaintive vocals, Parker’s CD loses its effect. At its best, the album is fragile, private and, consequently charming. At its worst, the album is persistently fragile, private and, consequently uncharming.
joeleeparker.com