Faux Pas
Self-Released, 2020
8/10
The side project of singer-songwriter Ranzel X Kendrick, as Alias Wayne, the folk spirited artist returns with a sophomore album, where his esteemed song craft is highlighted by backing female vocals.
“Gimme What It’s Worth” starts the listen with much attention to mood as harmonica complements the throwback approach that’s very much indebted to the ‘60s as he reworks a Buffalo Springfield classic, and “Broke Down In Texas” continues the cautious landscape with crisp Americana as female singing adds greatly to the tuneful delivery.
The last 3 tracks are equally enticing, including the soft horns and smooth delivery of the bluesy “Nobody Like Me”, while “Caveman Jack” resides closer to folk territory with vivid storytelling in the playful EP highlight. “Just Because” finishes the listen percussively strong and rhythmic, where timeless musicianship flows with authenticity and adventurous sophistication.
A really fun effort where blues, country, jazz, folk and the early days of rock’n’roll are all present, much like his work under his own name, there’s much diversity here, as strong vocals and much attention to melody makes 5 songs of Alias Wayne just not enough.
Travels well with: Brother Starling- The Weight Of Change; Brian Dunne- Selling Things