Customer Reviews

Time Flies

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

It's hard to say what strikes you first with this pair. The vocals are clear and true, weaving together in seamless harmony. The deft production is just-right, as one might expect in an album with a rather extended birthing. But winding throughout is the humor that led Rich Prezioso and Jacquie Manning to christen themselves "Small Potatoes." Notoriety doesn't automatically imply greatness, any more than talent or craft will guarantee popularity-- and cherishing the journey has helped this pair to endure.

In their acknowledgements on the liner notes, the two admit that they've been working on "Time Flies" for more than a year, and thank the musicians and writers, volunteers and fans that were involved. "If it weren't for you, we'd probably be selling shoes somewhere, and we'd probably be late for work right now." Legendary Chicago folkie Michael Smith belies the self-deprecation of these musician's musicians in his own liner comments, painting a future where he says "i knew them when." Don't believe the aw-shucks attitude of this pair, or you'll miss a wonderful album.

The title cut is an apt picture of the slightly-baffled acceptance with which Prezioso seems to greet the world. "I'm running around with a hammer and a patch-kit wondering where to start." Hot on its heels is Manning's droll rendition of "Talk a Little Texan to Me Darling," complete with John Rice's deft fiddle, Prezioso's campy impression of cowboy flirtation, and even some well-placed yodeling. "Boy Around the Corner" showcases the pair's voices in a playful acapella number borrowed from the Bobs.

"Quartzite" is a sweet ballad reminiscent of Robert Fulghum's "geek dancing": the older couple content with themselves and their well-practiced pleasures. They show equal craft in the Celtic flavored piece "The Terror Time," and golden oldie "The Best Things in Life are Free." All are good examples of the songwriting that inspires Small Potatoes: sometimes obscure, sometimes not, but all presented in a way to makes the songs their own.

"Avocado" shows Jacquie's sultry range to great advantage, in a sexy paeon to the delights of this trendy fruit. But just as you might be tempted to dismiss Rich as the mild-mannered backdrop for his partner's talents, he comes to the fore again with the lilting original "My Last Goodnight." Both are secure enough to step back and let the other shine, or to pool their talents exuberantly. "The Little That I Know" and "Woodcutter's Song" exemplify the playfulness that mark every Small Potatoes performance. It's easy not to notice just how much skill and talent goes into these engaging songs.

Prezioso and Manning have already found appreciation among other musicians, opening for such notables as Cheryl Wheeler. If you're fortunate enough to see them live, you won't regret it. Whether you've savored a Small Potatoes show or are anticipating your first, "Time Flies" is a great way to remember the experience. This album will be a favorite for fans of all stripes: bluegrass, ballads, country, or Celtic. (If nothing else, it caters to that "niche market" where wonderful music is valued!) With Prezioso's traditional-flavored "I Will Pass This Way Again," you'll find yourself looking forward to their return, over and over again.

After reading the putdown review of the Amazon reviewer I felt it necessary to respond. I absolutely love the album and the group Small Potatoes. Unique, refreshing and a huge croud favorite at the music festivals. They stretch the envelope in the variety and depth of music that they perform. Their songwriting and stylings differentiate them from the pablum that Geoffrey seemingly craves. It is instantly apparent from listening to their album and reading his reviews that they are not only better at what they do, but are less impressed with themselves. The new CD, Waltz of the Wallflowers has some real gems also. Highly recommend both. Listen and decide for yourselves.

The following is an excerpt from a review I wrote after seeing Small Potatoes in concert for a folk/acoustic music society for which I am a co-founder I, too, don't understand the Himes review because I find what Rich and Jacquie are able to do is exactly what he accuses them of not being able to do. They are superb songwriters and excellent musicians and...they also generate an incredible musical energy onstage. Anyways...

"Hearing is Believing" is a pretty good name for this column (even if I do say so myself), but you also had to see this concert to believe it! Over 200 people packed the Arts Center for this show. It was amazingly gratifying for the FAMA Board!

Facing FAMA's first sold-out crowd, Small Potatoes didn't disappoint a soul. Opening with an instrumental that led into "Talk A Little Texan to Me" featured Rich on the first of many jaw-dropping solos of the night. He makes it look so easy, but we all know the truth. Jacquie's rich voice and rhythm guitar compliments Rich's hot guitar playing perfectly.

Rich and Jacquie's show featured most of the songs off their Time Flies CD and reflected their diverse tastes. They played swing. They played some traditional folk (including an exquisite version of "Shenandoah"). They played a Celtic medley. And all featured tight harmonies and incredible soloing......

The large crowd really enjoyed themselves singing along on "Turn Your Radio On" and Rich's "I Will Pass This Way Again" and by giving rousing ovations to many of the songs throughout the night.

The show ended after an extended standing ovation and encore. Wow! What a night!

As a co-director of the Lake County (IL) Folk Festival, I listen to ALOT of folk music, and this duo is my hands-down favorite. I don't want to repeat what has been so well said by previous reviewers... so suffice it to say that if I were stranded on a desert island and could only take one CD it would be this one. (Then I'd have to find a way to sneak "Waltz of the Wallflowers" in too.) Buy these CDs -- you will not be disappointed.

I agree with the previous reviewer. Himes either doesn't know anything about music (which he is apparently paid to write about) or he woke up on the really wrong side of the bed the day that he wrote that review.

I don't know what prompted that mean-spirited review. I know a bunch of people that are performers and/or students of folk and acoustic music and they are all blown away by Small Potatoes. The versatility and talent in their songwriting and singing along with Jaquie's incredible voice and Rich's wizardry on the guitar make them a delight to hear. Their personalities also make them a delight to meet. I have done so twice and I will have the good fortune to see and meet them a third time when they perform in Madison, Wisconsin about a month from now.

Small Potatoes is one of the most exciting acts I have ever seen. Rich's guitar work (including bottle neck slide style) is incredible. Jacquie's vocals are wonderful and their writing creative and extemely entertaining. The "Waltz of the Wallfowers" CD reflects all of this. If they do such a poor job with Michael Smith's songs, then why does he consistantly share the stage with them and praise them? Find a different line of work Geoffrey!

Time Flies is a gourmet meal for the ears. A nice appetizer, several delicious main entree's, lots of dessert. Fun, enjoyable, fabulous musicians, great songwriters. Have seen live as well and I highly recomend.