Thaddeus Hogarth
Trying to Believe
Rating: 8.0
Spinning,
2001
Thaddeus Hogarth
Trying to Believe
exudes the Boston musicians's cool.
Thaddeus Hogarth is cool.
He has a sort a sort of '70s-inspired cool that helps songs on his new album. Trying To Believe, seem to swagger out of the speakers. Hogarth weaves funk, R&B and soul with his mid-range vocal delivery to create tight tunes that hearken back to a time when Stevie Wonder and Curtis Mayfield topped the charts.
A Berklee College of Music alum and former singer of Boston's Heavy Metal Horns, Hogarth's delivery is honest, and you don't get the sense that he is trying to be retro. He is genuinely retro. Trying To Believe sounds like it's actually a re-release from that classic period. The songs have a timeless air to them; there is no doubt that they would sound good in the '70s, and they sound good now.
From the funky bass on "That Was Yesterday" to the reggae groove on "Cold Shack", Hogarth and company easily bridge the gap between genres. Bassist David Buda lays down slick bass lines that complement Hogarth's bluesy guitar, while drummer Joey Scrima holds it all together. Keyboardist Craig Stevens adds to the retro feel with his use of that '70s staple, the B3 Organ.
As well as Hogarth plays the guitar, he plays the harmonica better. His harmonica never overtakes a song; instead it floats and dances above the groove. Hogarth draws a delicate sound from his harp that accentuates the songs, adding an uplifting quality to them. The harmonica parts are less solos than interpretive dances inspired by the other instruments.
Trying to Believe, is a rare gem, full of solid musicianship and powerful songwriting. On its strength, Thaddeus Hogarth should quickly break out of Boston's music scene and on to the national stage.-- Kevin Maurer
http://www.nudeasthenews.com/sections/reviews/history/030701aaa.html