For All The Money In The World
BFD, 2021
8/10
Listen to For All The Money In The World
The songwriting duo of Doug ‘Cosmo’ Clifford and Steve Wright, with For All The Money In The World they bring some serious talent to these ‘80s influenced songs that are on par with the greatness achieved by the legendary bands these musicians were all a part of.
The title track starts the listen and makes an immediate impression with its bright melodies and smooth singing that brings a slight rootsy feel to the upbeat climate, and “I Need Your Love” follows with Clifford’s thumping drums alongside well timed keys in the ‘80s power ballad.
Packed in the middle, “I See Your Silhouette” flows with a bouncy spirit that benefits much from Wright’s clever bass work and Keith England’s raspy but tuneful pipes in the bluesy setting, while “Real Love” showcases sturdy guitar lines amid grit and plenty of timeless rock’n’roll flavor. “You Keep Runnin’ Away”, one of the album’s best, then flows with an infectious energy thanks to the meticulous rhythm section and swirling guitar acrobatics.
“Lonesome Boy” arrives near the end and brings plenty of grooves to the nostalgic environment, and “You’re Gonna Love Again” exits the listen showcasing strategic backing vocals alongside an anthemic quality that seems like it should have soundtracked an ‘80s action flick.
Culled from recordings that Clifford assembled in his years after being the drummer for Creedence Clearwater Revival, Wright brings his experience playing in the Greg Kihn Band, and with players like Joe Satriani, Greg Douglass (Steve Miller Band), Jimmy Lyon (Eddie Money) and Tim Gorman (The Who), among others on hand, though these songs are 30+ years old, they sure do sound great today, and likely will for decades to come, too.
Travels well with: Gasoline Lollipops- All The Misery Money Can Buy; Maia Sharp- Mercy Rising