Shot Of Blue
Self-Released, 2024
8/10
An independent film director/writer and musician, Tom DiCillo brings us 12 original songs that surround love and agony and unfold with a cinematic quality.
“December Sun” starts the listen with a hint of mystery, where DiCillo’s baritone pipes guide the rich climate that uses harmonica sparingly, and the funky title track follows with crisp drums and plenty of grooves.
Further along, “Falling Into You” is uniquely intimate, where fluid guitar and expressive singing guides the mesmerizing climate, while “Girl In A Million” is a pretty duet that’s a bit hazy and certainly rich in flavor.
Residing closer to the end, “Now Is The Time” is a sparse moment of grace and melody, as spirited electric guitar suits the moody ambience, and “Stars” exits with emotive singing and poeticism that tugs on the heartstrings.
A record that took years to make, DiCillo handles guitar, synth, and programmed the drums, and the addition of backup singers, guitarist Dean Parks, accordionist James Fearnley, and Paul Cartright on electric cello illuminate his many talents.
Travels well with: Vili V- In Daddy’s Arms Again; BD Gottfried- Onion Doves