Life Ain’t All Roses
Ripping Glass, 2023
8/10
Listen to Life Ain’t All Roses
An artist who has played with the Duffy Bishop band, the Insomniacs and the Julie Amici Band, this debut solo album from Dean Mueller brings 11 originals and a cover that are fleshed out with Mueller’s strong attention to detail.
“Sky Fallin’” begins the listen with conversational singing, as a warm version of Americana unfolds with Mueller’s smooth pipes amid the crisp drumming, and “You Don’t Know How It Feels” brings a very cozy spirit to the Tom Petty tune that’s lush and pretty in this slower version.
At the halfway point, the playful twang of “Dance A Life” welcomes an intimate delivery of country influenced song craft, while “I Wish I Said” takes that lead a step further into poetic territory thanks to Mueller’s vivid storytelling.
Close to the end, the quicker pace of “Home To Me” displays a timeless, rootsy appeal, and “Find My Way” exits with a bare display of folk friendly songwriting that’s reflective, mature and memorable.
An excellent first outing on his own, Mueller’s vision is one of depth and substance and will likely resonate for decades to come.
Travels well with: Buddy Mondlock- Filament; Brian Blake- Book Of Life