CD: Better Days

Home: Buffalo, NY

Style: Blues/Rock

Quote: "The most attractive aspect of Better Days is the whimsical lyricism that Valentine is known for."

By Shellie Byrum

Sometimes it’s nice to relive the past. And if you’re in that kind of mood, you’ll enjoy Valentine’s newest release, Better Days. The singer/songwriter explores the classic bluesy rock of the late 70s and 80s with his voice and keyboard talent.

Having been compared with such artists as Steely Dan, Valentine delivers a lively 11-song album full of witty songs about life, love and…Viagra? Indeed, the most attractive aspect of Better Days is the whimsical lyricism that Valentine is known for. If you don’t always appreciate the musical message, you’ll at least chuckle at the clever lines.

The album is mostly keyboard oriented, which is a nice variation on most of the music in this genre. Valentine keeps the music interesting, switching from retro 70s to poppy 80s to a country twang that seems to have permeated every decade. Songs such as “If I Live to be 100” give a catchy melody that would fit in perfectly as a karaoke tune on a spontaneous bar night. Not to mention the lyrics:

If I live to be one hundred
Willard Scott will show my picture on TV
Right next to a jar of Smuckers.

The standout song on the album is “Point of No Return.” Although it is lacking on the rhythm, it moves with emotion and takes the music along with it. It’s one of the few ballads on the album, but it’s one that can be belted out if you lose the one you love.

Valentine’s charm and willful voice makes Better Days worth a listen.

  http://www.valentineproject.com

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