Veteran California singer-songwriter Tim Morrow recently self-released his latest album, As Long As It’s Not Me, in May of 2013. Morrow sings with a distinct, nasally voice that incorporates a bit of a Bowie-like, “British Invasion” accent and sounds decidedly younger than what you might expect from someone the age of sixty. He also plays bass and acoustic guitar to create an acoustic-based pop-rock sound that touches on many of his diverse musical influences – 70’s power-pop, Motown, Beatles-esque melodies, sunny 60’s pop and 50’s rock and roll – which he grew up listening to in Michigan.
In the late 70’s, he formed the band, The Murder Brothers along with guitarist Jerry Juden and quickly made a name for themselves in the Los Angeles music scene for a few years before disbanding. Decades later, they reformed in the 90’s as The Shamus Twins and recorded their self-titled debut album which was well-regarded across the globe. Meanwhile, Tim has been recording on his own since 2007; when he released his 22-track debut solo album, Back To Deltron. It is evident that Morrow and Juden have a long, rich musical history together and Juden joined Morrow in the studio for the recording of As Long As It’s Not Me, lending backing vocals, guitars and guitar solos to the mix. He was also joined by guitarist Dinos Lambropoulos and drummer Perry Lopez, who helped shape his musical vision.
The album opens with the sparkling “Sunny Day In Santa Monica” and its appropriately sun-soaked melodies and fun, call-and–response sing-along vocals. “That’s The Way Love Is” follows with a soulful, soaring chorus that recalls the classic doo-wop rock of the 50’s along with a crusty guitar solo by Jerry Juden. The rootsy, folk-inspired title track, “As Long As It’s Not Me” is built upon a bed of steady acoustic guitar strumming complete with some pretty flourishes and an emotionally-charged vocal performance that drips with longing and regret. The rollicking standout track, “Better Day” is led by a strutting bass line and a shuffling, danceable drum beat along with an infectious and uplifting chorus. Next, “Sounds Like Michele Walking” features jangly Byrds-like guitars and a catchy vocal cadence that lends the song a bit of a psychedelic vibe. “Deep In Her Heart” is also upbeat with a driving rock rhythm, a sincere, lyrical sentiment and an infectious hook. The strangely-titled “Do You Like Her Or Someone” is a country-leaning folk-rock song with sweet 50’s rock vocal harmonies, that ends up being another standout moment on the album. Juden lends his swaying backing vocals and another melodic guitar solo to the self-deprecating track, “I’ll Go Away”. Another standout track is the dynamic “In 30 Years”. On one hand, the song is bittersweet, as Morrow acknowledges his age and wishes that he could still be around when a younger loved one grows up, but his youthful voice adds in a bit of gusto and guest, Dino Lambropoulos contributes a blistering, bluesy guitar solo, which lightens the mood considerably. Closing out the ten-track album is “2 Day Holiday” with strummy alt-country guitars and some sharp, 60’s pop melodies that set the scene for the lyrics that burst with a sense of urgency and beg for reconnection with a lover, even if only for a couple of days.
The album art for As Long As It’s Not Me, with its coastal landscape and lighthouse, evokes nostalgic memories; I’m sure for Tim Morrow, of his childhood growing up in Michigan. Likewise, his memorable pop-rock music that is highlighted by a touch of folk and country is sure to hit the same nostalgic notes for the listener.
Review by: Justin Kreitzer
Rating: 3 out 5 stars