Press On
Himmasongs/Six Degrees, 2020
8/10
Peter Himmelman has stayed quite busy since his time playing in Sussman Lawrence in the ‘80s, as the Emmy and Grammy nominated singer-songwriter has dabbled in children’s music, as well as film and TV. His solo work has been quite prolific, too, and with Press On he delivers his 15th album
“Suite For Tambourine And Handclaps” starts the listen with a playful acoustic opener as Himmelman’s vivid storytelling highlights a key friendly opener, and “This Is How It Ends” follows with a calm display of melodic, flowing song craft that’s full of the eloquent wordplay we’ve come to expect from the Minnesota native.
Further on, “Press On” builds into a rhythmic blues-rocker with plenty of frisky percussion and organ, while “A Place In Your Heart” trims the pace back with warm keys as Himmelman enters ballad territory with a gospel feel. “Truth Proffered In A Hard Time”, the album standout, then recruits a bouncy spirit in the upbeat folk influenced climate that’s not short on piano swing.
Close to the end, “Big Red Moon” shines bright with just keys complementing Himmelman’s expressive pipes, and “This Is My Offering” exits the listen primarily acoustic, with much beauty in the timeless love song.
Recorded live in the studio with minimal overdubs, Jimi Englund holds down drums/percussion while Greg Herzenach handles guitars, Chris Joyner on keys and Matthew Thompson on upright bass. Himmelman spent 3 years penning this record and it shows as the R&B, blues, funk, and folk fueled listen illustrates much depth as both a musician and a human.
Travels well with: Peter Mulvey- There Is Another World; Paul Thorn- Don’t Let The Devil Ride