Chad Carrier - Not Alone

Chad Carrier

Not Alone
​self-released; 2022

4.0 out of 5

By Dan Weston
​

Chad Carrier is a seasoned musician who got his start back in the ’80s. Since then his list of achievements is prolific. Carrier had airplay on MTV when they used to be the biggest thing in the world, was signed to Capitol records and has been in many successful bands. Today however we are concentrating on Not Alone which is a thirteen-song album.

The album begins with “Die on the Hill” which has a strong country, folk and bluegrass quality. It’s got an appealing drive and I loved the rolling drums on this song. The song is a fun, playful and solid introduction that got me interested in hearing more.

“Silence” is more subdued and revolves more around acoustic guitar and vocals. It's a warm and inviting song and some of the vibes felt similar to Cat Stevens and Grateful Dead. Once I got to “Devo on Dope” I got thrown for a loop. It definitely seems to be inspired by Devo but the fiddle gives this country flavor and to throw more at you Carrier sounds similar to David Bryne on this song. This was a very original sounding song. 

“Not Alone” was an emotionally resonant song with lots of positive messages and a warm canvas of sounds that provide a sense of solace. “Bootstrap Cantina” was another interesting one. It felt like a tip of the hat to Johnny Cash and the vocals seem to have an affectation to fit the mood of the song. It's dark in the same way a Johnny Cash song is but still good fun and something you can sing along with.

“Check My Soul” was a catchy song that felt theatrical to me. I was picturing a grand performance in Las Vegas with this one. “Hanging Out in Hollywood” is more cinematic and definitely a darker song. There’s a sense of tension here which is menacing. 

“Death and Calling” is fun. I loved the almost childlike sing-along quality juxtaposed with heavier lyrics. Continuing with a child-like sing-along quality is “Laughing” but even more so. Out of the remaining songs I thought “I Wanna Hurt” and “Bubbles” were highlights.

​Carrier’s tone throughout this album is a little hard to pinpoint. Some of it felt playful, some of it more serious and some that were on the line. Regardless, the album has some great songs and it’s obvious why Carrier has been able to make a living as a musician. Recommended.

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