Desmond Drive’s debut album, I Called I is an 11-song alt-pop album with much musical sophistication. While references to Bruce Springsteen, Roy Orbison and even the Beatles abound, Desmond Drive manages to set themselves apart with intriguing monologues introducing each song and flawless musical accompaniment. A session musician who has been a part of several rock and pop bands, Bill Shaouy is the leader of the band, providing impeccable vocals throughout the disc.
The album starts out with a monologue: “The studio date was set/And the band was ready to record/To celebrate the glory of relationship/To witness the folly of control/To marvel at all creation/Rejoice!” In fact, much of I Called I has narrations introducing each song; however some more than others are a bit curious at times. While the monologues aren’t always needed, they do help break up the album. First track, “Two-Headed Beast” is the strongest track on the album. With a hint of Bruce Springsteen vocals, Shaouy leads the band well. “I’ve worn this skin for so long now/That’s all I thought I was/But love reflects what I don’t see/More than a mirror does” he sings. The piano accentuates his vocals well and while the music is incredibly strong, it never overpowers Shaouy’s vocals, which are the heart of the song.
Incredulously, “Poker Face” also reveals another rock icon – this time the infamous Roy Orbison. While Shaouy is crying over lost love the backing vocals seemingly take the listener back to 60s Doo-Wop with continuous “sha-la-la sha-la-la-oooh.”
Extremely versatile, much of the album recalls musicians of the past. However, despite the comparisons and strong musicianship some songs lack the mastership shown on previous tracks. One track in particular, “Simple Things,” sounds like what being in a psychedelic state would feel like with curious lyrics, “Me, I am a lover of humor pythonese/I am a lover of chick peas Lebanese/I am a lover of love songs McCarney’s/I am a lover of all the simple things they say are meant to be.” While I’m sure this wasn’t the intention, both the musical arrangement and accompanying lyrics grab the listener’s attention.
Regardless, I Called I has much to offer listeners. Whether one is looking for a ballad (“Your Name” has stellar organ accompaniment) or time travel (in addition to “Poker Face” “Goodbye” sounds like something the Beatles may have sung at some point in their career) one thing is certain, Desmond Drive’s debut will surly get stuck in your head.
Reviewed By Annie Reuter
