Regular Columnists

Artist: Dodd Ferrelle
Album: Lonely Parades
Label: Two Sheds Music
Website: http://www.doddferrelle.com
Genre: Indie alternative pop/rock
Technical Grade: 8.5/10
Production/Musicianship Grade: 8.5/10
Commercial Value: 8/10
Overall Talent Level: 8.0/10
Best Songs: I Can't Wait, Used
CD Review:

Lonely Parades, the latest CD from Athens, Georgia resident Dodd Ferrelle, is an excellent example of everything that’s right with Indie music. Ferrelle’s heartfelt tunes offer homage to REM, the godfathers of Athens indie rock, but reflect Ferrelle’s other influences ranging from Roy Orbison to Elvis Costello. Joined by John Mills on bass, and Kyle Spence on drums, the lineup for Lonely Parades also includes producer David Barbe on keys, William Tonks on lead guitar, and Betsy Inglesby on backup vocals.

I Can’t Wait is a pop delight. Mamie Fike Simonds adds violin to Ferrelle’s song about the coming of his new daughter. Miss Bliss, another ode to Ferrell’s daughter, features Tim Adams on lead guitar. Don’t Go Away is a country waltz featuring John Neff on pedal steel. Used is one of my favorites on the CD. Noel Blackmon on mandolin and David VanWyck on cello join Ferrelle on acoustic guitar. Ferrelle’s plaintive vocal and stark lyrics are reminiscent of early Dylan as he sings, “Clicking heels, I’m spinning wheels, Never knowing how it feels To watch the congregations kneel. Do you think they’ll all be healed?”

Lonely Parades is a passionate, heartfelt CD filled with interesting, engaging songs. Ferrelle marches to his own drum even as he reflects his influences. His songs are unique slices of Americana with enough depth to call for repeated listening. Recommended.