bill scorzari - just the same

Bill Scorzari

Just The Same
self-released; 2014

4.0 out of 5 - TOP ALBUM

By Ted Rogen

If I was told to sum up the debut album Just The Same by Bill Scorzari in one word I would have to chose the word “warmth.” Everything from the guitars, to the violins, to his voice is free of any harsh frequencies, which makes for a very inviting sound.  Scorzari plays roots/blues/folk music that sound as old as the hills themselves. It’s a sound that in my opinion can only be achieved by live acoustic instrumentation that the album is decorated with. And then there is that voice. Scorzari has an incredible raspy voice that often sounds like a distant cousin to Tom Waits and an even more distant cousin to The Boss. His voice fits around the music like a glove and provides shades of melancholy, adversity and hope. 

The fluidity and cohesiveness of the album makes for an easy listen where you can press play and not have to worry about skipping tracks. Once you hear the “warmth” of the first track you won’t want to start skipping tracks.

The album starts with “Eight of Nine (Just The Same),” which lyrically taps on seemingly disparate topics such as heartbreak, the omission of Pluto as a planet and drinking whiskey. A single shaker provides some rhythm while the string work takes center stage. The song isn't bursting with energy but finds a balance between melancholy and hope. 

One of the highlights was the festive “I Keep Rollin” On,” which has some excellent violin work. When Scorzari exclaims, “I keep rollin,” it resonates not only as an empathetic statement but also as a universal truth. Scorzari takes it down a notch on “Baby’s Got A New Blue Dress” while “Because Of You” introduces effective horns into the mix. The album closes with “Sweet Surrender.” It’s a lyrically potent yet instrumentally sparse song that puts Scorzari’s voice front and center.  It’s an excellent way to close the album.

At thirteen tracks Just The Same may seem a bit daunting at first but I encourage you to take this journey. Scorazi’s debut album is one you will not want to miss.

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