Though he’ll be forever known as the leader of SWERVEDRIVER, the second album by ADAM FRANKLIN under his own name makes a convincing argument for the singer/songwriter/guitarist’s relevance outside his much-loved band. Franklin’s self-styled “Bolts of Melody” (also the name of his previous record) strike straight and true, with little frippery to get between tune and eardrum. Going easy on the guitar effects, but not abandoning them, Franklin frosts a delicious layer cake of casual hooks, affecting lyrics and personable vocals. Tasty pieces include “Surge” (as definitive an opening statement as any album could wish for), “Champs” and the gorgeous “Big Sur.” No gimmicks, no hip indie rock collaborations, no special event hype – just a winning collection of melodic songs played with taste and passion.
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