Customer Reviews

Willy Porter

5 star:		(9)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I admit to being a huge Willy Porter fan. His guitar playing is awesome, his singing is glorious, and his songwriting is wonderful. Each new cd, therefore, invites comparisons to the previous ones---particularly in seeing which skill is emphasized. For instance, The Trees Have Soul emphasized his guitar virtuosity. I think Dog-Eared Dream balanced songwriting and guitar pyrotechnics with some good singing. Falling Forward emphasized his songwriting and singing, with (for the most part) subtle guitar work. The new self-titled cd mixes all three, but song by song, rather than throughout.

Because music is so subjective, listeners will have their own preferences. I prefer the last two albums over this one, but that is not to deny the many merits this album has. I think Willy is trying to branch out and reach other audiences, and I do not fault him for doing so. I hope everyone who likes good music will hear him; they will find something to enjoy for themselves.

Turning to the particular tracks, "Breathe" is a guitar flamethrower, with a good lyrical hook. The single, "If Love Were an Airplane," is reminiscent of the Beatles. It's not my favorite, because I like Willy to sound like Willy, not like the Beatles (though I loved the Beatles). But it's a good choice for a pop single. "Everything But Sorry" mixes clever songwriting with singing in character. "Unconditional Love" and "Big Yellow Pine" are masterful stories, with excellent emotive singing. The rythmic hooks to "All Fall Down" and "Dandelion on the Minefield" are typical of Willy's best guitar work. Probably my favorite track is "Dishwater Blonde." The poginant lyrics and incredible falsetto singing bring me to tears every time I hear it. It is very powerful, and by itself makes this album worth having. When you add in all the other treats, it is a great album. Willy is definitely maturing as an artist who can put together the whole package of goods.

Love this one. Lyrics are awesome. Willy out did himself again!
If you already own "Dog Eared Dream" and "Falling Forward" this one is a must have! If you don't have any of his music go for it!
This CD has it all,,,, Willy's singing talent and guitar playing can't be beet! Every song on the entire CD is great! The song "Unconditional" will bring you to tears,,,uplifting ones that is! "Big Yellow Pine" not only shows Willy's wonderful vocal talent but also Ian Andersons bamboo flute! Way to go Willy
If I could give you ten stars for this one I sure would!

My interest in Willy Porter began when I saw him play live at a local venue. His recordings are very good, however, as often happens, they don't begin to do justice to the full range of his talent. This latest is a fine effort. In this age of corporate music, Willy Porter is like a breath of fresh air. Having seen Willy perform several times now, I have a tremendous respect for his talent.

What really hooked me originally was a spontaneous tune that began as a guitar riff he was noodling with while adjusting his equipment. The band jumped in, and all of a sudden they were into a mesmerizing slow funk groove over which Willy laid down some absolutely stunning lyrics as well as some electric jazz guitar work unlike any I've heard him do since. The impact was similar to the first time I saw Miles Davis play back in the 60's, or the magic that happened when sax great John Handy played a gig with legendary Indian sarode player Ali Akbar Khan. The rest of the audience was as knocked out by it as I was, and a 5 minute standing ovation ensued. Willy looked slightly surprised and a bit embarrassed. I'm not certain even he knew he had it in him.

Suffice it to say that the only downside to Willy Porter's recordings is that there is so much more than they capture. Artists like Willy no longer receive major label attention these days, and thus don't have a budget that allows them to get the most talented production people available to them. I have to agree with the other reviewer indicated that with a top producer, Willy is capable of putting out one for the ages. Do yourself a favor and catch his live act when he's in your area. The engaging folky tunes and acoustic guitar work heard on Porter's recordings are simply the tip of the iceberg. This guy is a monster talent that is almost totally overlooked.

A friend from Madison got me into Willy's music a couple of years ago. The earlier discs were the work of somebody who can pick with the best of them and has the ability to write a great song now and then. This latest CD, though, is on a higher songwriting plane. At least two thirds of the songs are really first rate, and while the fine guitar work is still there (especially on the opening track), what really jumps out is that this guy can write as well as play guitar. The first five tracks are all strong....check out Breathe, If Love Were an Airplane, Unconditional, and also Blue Light toward the end of the CD. Highly recommended.

What a find!!! Never heard of him until I heard a cut on the satellite (Adult Alternative). Willy Porter is a fantastic songwriter with a voice that has strength and control without the need to show off. Willy Porter has a maturity and diversity of sound that keeps you interested right to the last song. Today I am ordering his first two albums. Go Willy!!! A special mention for Emanuel Kiriakou on base. He adds so much to the groove.

I found this CD because it was recommended for people who enjoy David Gray's music. I bought it after only hearing a few sample track snippets, and I was happily surprised. My favorite track is "Unconditional". Highly recommended artist! You won't be disappointed.

While nothing compares to seeing Willy live, this disc shows his versatility from the opening guitar blazing track "Breathe" through the rest of the CD where the band joins in. Willy ceases to amaze with his songwriting and musical ability. This is worth a slot in the CD case, right in front for easy access. And if Willy is in your town, go check him out. You are in for a treat with his show and this CD!

I think Willy is an INCREDIBLE guitar player and a damn fine singer. However, I personally think that he can use the help of an experienced producer who might be able to better piece his talents together. I think his songwriting can use some work and he needs to learn how to maximize his tremendous potential. I like the album and I think it's worth buying, but it's not among my "dessert island" collection. It's a shame because with a little work, I think he could [make] that list.

I haven't heard this album, but I was just wondering if anyone has directions to this so-called "dessert lsland" the last reviewer spoke of. If it exists, I would love to go there and eat all the cake and cookies and ice cream available on the island. Please let me know.

All I have to say is - Willy is the man! :-)