Rich Robinson
Paper
(Keyhole Records)

When a sincere and successful rock band splits up it usually because their originality has become a friend they lost all touch with a long time ago; so that even their egos realize that the cash cow has been milked so hard that the udders are bleeding. However, this could not possibly be the case with the Black Crowes and their lynchpins the Robinson Brothers; Rich and Chris, could it? Certainly not if Rich’s self produced

foray into the somber and reflective side of music is anything to go by. The maudlin and thought provoking 'Leave Me Alone' provides an insight into his mindset, as he advocates the 'give me some space' approach to problem solving. Jangling and lingering instrumentals sets a thoughtful and somber mood throughout the album, as Robinson meanders his way through the vicissitudes of life and how to deal with them.

The upbeat highlight that illuminates the album is the bubbly pop offering; ‘Know Me’. Whereby, Rich’s vocals reveal a more upbeat and tender side, as he seeks to chip away at the walls of ignorance that apparently stop people seeing the real him. The acoustic based ‘When You Will’ is tingling foray into the subject of trust, a matter that is evidently on the singer’s mind currently. This fourteen track offering has an even and honest feel to it and it is sure to catapult Robinson back into the public eye, as he will now be listened to as well as being talked about.

http://www.richrobinson.net

David Adair