H.R.Gertner is a singer/songwriter alternative folk artist from Gainesville, Florida. Apparently the artist has released twenty-eight EPs and LPs compiling one hundred and sixty-two original songs. We actually reviewed one of those releases all the way back in 2014. This time around he states “he has wiped the slate clean, upped his performance and production, and delivered a collection establishing a new beginning.”
To start this new beginning Gertner went to Riverbottom Studios & Asylum Sound, in Gainesville, GA to record Giving In & Giving Up. From a production standpoint this record sounds great. It’s very organic, warm and inviting. I would also say the title alone is something most people have felt over the last two years in some way. The album is a mix of folk, country and even some bluegrass and there’s a rich assortment of instrumentation like mandolin, banjo, dobro, lap steel and much more. Up first is “Them Pretty Lights Downtown” which starts with a blast of southern sounding rock. The music simmers into the verse and Gertner’s vocals feel as if they're in a very comfortable and natural range. He sounds confident but also relaxed. On top of that it's a catchy tune. Strong opener. The more somber, dark and reflective “Pink Flamingos” hits the mark. I always enjoyed darker countries like Johnny Cash and this felt like a similar zeitgeist. There’s some great slide guitar which adds to this feeling as it looms in the background full of reverb. “Let Me Down” is actually a lot more upbeat than I expected. The brush work on the drums adds to the feeling along with some exceptional organ work. Gertner’s vocals even seem to perk up. That was a warm up to bluegrass inspired and knee slapping good time that is to be had with “Everybody's Crazy But You and Me.” There’s some banjo on this song which is backed by walking bass melodies. On top of that these might be the catchiest vocals. That’s followed by the most intimate and nostalgic sounding song called “Broken Crayon.” I also loved the slow moving but graceful “Oh Sierra.” Gertner closes with an upbeat energy that soars on “The Same Dream.” Individually the songs on this album work no matter how you listen but clearly the sequential order is something Gertner put some thought into. This is a rock solid album from beginning to end so take a listen.
1 Comment
Adam
1/2/2022 08:20:43 am
Great review and wonderful album. You hit the nail on the head several times. Looking forward to more from Gertner.
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