Customer Reviews

Like a Seed

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This was the first Kenny Rankin album I ever heard and it made me a fan of his music from the first note. Although he has recorded several other albums over the years, this one remains my favorite. The music ranges from angelic to harsh reality as in "Coming Down", but all exhibit Kenny's ability to mold his voice around a song, instead of just singing it. I like every song on the album, but especially lean on "Sometimes", "Stringman", and "You are my Woman" for special comfort. The many who have never been exposed to Kenny Rankin's music will never know what they have missed.

Kenny Rankin has to be one of my favorite male vocalist for the sheer purity in his voice. I love this album... and all of the tracks stand out. "Stringman", "Peaceful", "Like a Seed" , and "Earthman" are stunning compositions. I know it's put of print but search the web for this album in one from or another. You will not be disappointed!!!!

I first heard Kenny Rankin when he opened for comedian George Carlin in Houston in 1971 (1972?). Rankin, accompanying himself only on amplified accoustic guitar, spoke openly and passionately about his work and his life. The song "Comin' Down" is about his experiences as a street-orphaned drug addict. Every note, every cry and whine, rings with the agony and fear which "straights" (non-users) could only imagine. It was riviting. Following this with such soft and soul-filled songs as "Peaceful" and "Stringman" showed a contrast of spirit which made me a believer on the spot.

One cannot pigeonhole Rankin's work. Over the years, he has sung everything from powerful, nerve-grinding rock to be-bop, jazz, ballad and (at the risk of using a term which some find pejorative) New Age. This first album shows a fine musical soul in its first explorations, testing lyrics, testing arrangements, feeling how to give voice to the experiences of life. It's a rare treat, and I can only hope that it will be brought to CD for us all to enjoy again.

I bought the album in the early 1970s and have been in love with him ever since. His voice range is incredible and the songs are soothing to the soul. This album always puts me in a tranquil mood, especially after a hectic day. Once you hear this album, you'll be a fan of Kenny's forever

If you're looking for memorable Kenny Rankin, pass on this cd. It's dated and over produced. You're better off buying almost any of Kenny's other cds before you buy this one. His voice is wonderful as always, but this appears to be Kenny at his least inspired.

From the moment I heard 'Peaceful' back in the 70's I was truly overwhelmed by Kenny Rankin's sweet subtlety, his incredibly melodic voice and his wonderful take on music. He doesn't just perform a song, he re-invents it to carry the listener into one of the most elegic listening experiences. More people should discover Kenny Rankin - he is truly one of America's best talents and Like A Seed displays that clearly. I can't quit listening after nearly 4 decades.

On his first Little David release, Rankin almost hits full stride. His reworking of "Peaceful" brought the song, and ultimately Rankin, a wider audience. The album eschews some of the preciousness of previous efforts and has a more universal appeal. Songs like the title cut and "Stringman" spotlight Rankin's continued growth as a songwriter. His songwriting, along with his gorgeous voice and unique and jazzy acoustic guitar prowess on the record, made him one of the staples of FM radio, a trend that would continue through his next few albums. As good as the record is, it merely sets the tone for Rankin's next few recordings, which represent truly his best.