Eddie West - Natural Philosophy

Eddie West

Natural Philosophy
self-released; 2013

3.7 out of 5

By Ethan Skelton

Eddie West takes a walk down sentiment lane on Natural Philosophy, but its cloudy out and a little windy. Not ideal accompaniment for a true to heart song man. The guitar tone could be dialed in a little stronger, mixed with more focus on pure tone, and the overall sound levels are a touch thin. Things definitely could benefit from a second look with production. The albums plays a little like an auditorium performance from the balcony.

West has a background of substance and respectable track record so there’s enough folk in this rock to keep it low key and in step with easy alternative, however it’s tough to find a standout on this album as they all blend well and move like slow melting gold.

“Candy Mae” is a sweet and long-winded track that lifts and drops with quiet intensity. It is sung from the point of view of an elated man and the mixed attraction and disbelief he sends to his lover. For the mellowest song on the album it surely makes a statement for West’s songwriting and not only that, but the band sounds right on point. The other tracks lilt with introspective weight, falling right in line with what might have come from Elvis Costello borrowing early 90’s adult contemporary. On “Flower Season” West steps out of his comfort zone to dabble in a reggae feel. There’s panning delays and stylistic fills, but still plenty of alternative tone and overdone choices that shouldn’t fool the average listener.

New Jersey’s seen West go up and down the coast like a musical relay runner and they won’t be seeing the last of him anytime soon. He’s a singular force of talent and songwriting. This album might not ignite passion or shake your walls, but beneath its tameness is an honest soul. West invites listeners without forcing anything, even going so far as to prefer coffee shop shows to standing room only venues. Talk about a humble artist.

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