Bill Filipiak - Put The Top Down

Bill Filipiak

​Put The Top Down
​self-released; 2018

4.0 out of 5

By Matt Jensen

Bill Filipiak has been writing and performing for about thirty years. I got to hear some of his talent on his release Put The Top Down which he explains is a combination of acoustic blues and pop/folk vibes. I was immediately attracted to the production and when looking at the credits it’s full of notable talents who are embedded with the Nashville scene.

​The album is easy on the ears in multiple ways. I thought the sounds were warm whether it was a acoustic guitar or a harmonica I was listening to. You can hear this on the opener “Top Down” which is catchy, mellow and loose. I especially loved how organic the song sounded. It beautifully captures what sounds like real people playing in a room together. That seems like a ridiculous statement at first glance but the amount of pop albums that sound like they are overproduced and quantized is staggering.

Up next is the wonderful “Time to Time.” Filipiak sounded a bit like Willie Nelson to my ears. Either way the song is catchy, comforting and beautifully delivered. I think the theme of the song has a great message as well. It reminded me of the picture that people often paint on social media of their all-to-perfect family which in reality might not be all that perfect.

“3Am” is another success that is reflective and nostalgic. The guitar is a focal point along with the piano which create a soundscape that is lush and dreamlike. Filipiak picks up the mood with bluesy and fun “Twenty-Four-Seven.” In fact the way the energy unfolds over the ten songs is the way I like to experience music. It’s a bit of roller coaster ride but it's never bumpy and unexpected.

I loved the second half of the album but I think “Used to This” was a standout. It’s an upbeat blues romp that is festive yet soulful.

A talent like Filipiak doesn't’ develop overnight. As someone who has been writing music for over twenty years myself I can appreciate a musician who wants to reinvent himself and keep pushing into new territory. This is a great album from a real pro. Take a listen.

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