Verden
Allen– My Masochistic Side
Angel Air
http://www.angelair.co.uk/
Rating: C
Capitalizing on the buzz
surrounding the upcoming Mott The Hoople reunion shows in the
U.K. this October comes the latest solo release entitled My
Masochistic Side from original member, keyboardist Verden
Allen. There are really only a couple of things you need to know
about Allen which you can hear on full display here. One, is the
guy sure can seriously rock the Hammond organ like it’s
nobody’s business, and two his vocals at times bear a fairly
strong resemblance to Bob Dylan.
Allen handles all the
instruments on this ten song outing and the atmosphere
surrounding these tracks is generally lighthearted and fun.
Standout tracks include “Apollo 09” a song dealing with the
reunion shows in which he proclaims that all he wants to do is
“Get pissed and just get stoned and enjoy myself”. Ok fair
enough so no lofty ambitions here but I’m sure his tongue is
planted firmly in cheek. Overall though musically and even
lyrically My Masochistic Side just seems tepid from
beginning to end and this disc lacks the any kind of fireworks
to help differentiate one track from the next.
I’d have to suggest taking a
pass on this one, and if you’re in the area try using some of
that money to score a ticket to one of Mott’s shows on their
five night stand instead.
-Ryan
Sparks
