Closer To My Home
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
The inimitable guitarist and singer-songwriter Mark Farner brings us 10 heartfelt songs that collaborate with Mark Slaughter and Jim Peterik and surround the ideas of past and present, and the work ethic of the rural man.
The bright and rich “Anymore” opens with soulful backing vocals, where Farner’s soaring pipes and rugged guitar playing guide the dense rock, and “The Prisoner” follows with Pat Cronley’s smooth keyboards and Mike Williams’ animated trumpet that aligns with the rich landscape.
In the middle, the stylish “Oh Darlin’” benefits much from Joshua Seth Egan’s fluid drumming, while “Surveiling Us” welcomes Farner’s meticulous slide guitar, as Slaughter plays all the rest of the instruments across the classic rock spirited album highlight.
Deeper still, the softer delivery of “Tiny Fingers” allows for Pat Ojibway’s graceful keys to shine amid the poeticism, and “I”m Your Captain (Closer To Home)” exits with 9+ minutes of driving retro rock, waves of ambience and even jam band qualities.
Farner is the original singer and guitarist of the rock band Grand Funk Railroad, and his distinct voice and powerful guitar playing is still vital and relevant all these years later.
Travels well with: Amanda McBroom- Wintersong; Foghat- Sonic Mojo