The Bottom Line
Pros
- “In A Real Love”
- ”I’ll Take That As A Yes (The Hot Tub Song)”
- ”Dancing With Dreams”
Cons
- None.
Description
- Produced by Nick Brophy, Frank Rogers and Phil Vassar.
- 10 of the 12 songs are co-written by Phil.
- Released by Arista Records Nashville.
Guide Review - Phil Vassar - Shaken Not Stirred
After 2 moderately successful records, Phil knew that his career rested on the shoulders of his 3rd album. Sensing this, Phil took a chance like Tim McGraw by producing the CD with his touring band behind him while getting help from Frank Rogers behind the studio knobs. While a chance, Phil needed to take it thus the fitting album title of “Shaken Not Stirred” (also a reference to James Bond).The first single “In A Real Love” was a welcomed return to form for Phil. It features his trademark melody and lyrical structure and is already a Top 10 hit. Like the rest of the songs on the record, “Good Old Days” tells a story, this one about creating some joyful times with friends. “I’ll Take That As A Yes (The Hot Tub Song)” is a fun fast paced number that reminds meof Montgomery Gentry. “Erase” is a huge power ballad that could cross-over to the AC music charts. “I Miss The Innocence” is a mid tempo ballad while “Amazing Grace” tells a story of a special woman, not the loved hymn. “Dancing With Dreams” is just Phil and his Piano and tells a story of a young group of friends who want to impact the world with song but only Phil eventually does so.
With 12 varied tracks “Shaken Not Stirred” leaves an immediate impression. While not a classic album, it does what it sets out to do: that is to showcase an evolving singer/songwriter growing into his own skin. It should do well for him.
