Ray Gilman – Let It Go
To take on the task of playing all of the instruments, singing and writing every song on an album is a brave thing to set oneself; Ray Gilman does just that on his solo album "Let It Go". Influenced by a series of family tragedies, this is an album that has plenty of positivity, some great song writing and some expert arrangements. Not forgetting the pure talent of a man capable of playing guitar, bass, drums and just about everything else, the album shows Gilman as a very competent musician. Having played on numerous CDs and played over 1000 live shows, he has a solid background and has developed his skills and style over a long time.
The album opens with the feel good classic pop/rock track 'Tell Me What I Want To Hear'; an inoffensive, catchy tune that is an unashamed throw back to the 1970s. After such a good opening, 'Workin'' follows. This is another catchy song and has some good guitar work thrown in for good measure. The album isn't all just catchy tunes, 'Power Struggle' rocks to a much faster and heavier rhythm and Gilman has allowed himself more freedom and it shows with some great guitar work. 'Lightnin' Boogie' is another where he finds the time and space to show what a good guitarist he actually is; playing with the melodies and exhibiting some very competent licks.
The album isn't one of melancholy; it is varied, humorous in parts and each song can be taken on its individual merits. There are lots of good moments and the listener is kept interested throughout. Whether it's the catchy choruses, the change of mood from blues to rock or just the extreme changes of guitar tones and effects, the man certainly knows how to entertain. I found myself returning to the album time and again; each time I'd notice a little gem of a riff or an unusual musical phrasing that I'd missed with previous listens.
The musicianship cannot be faulted; Gilman is a good musician and songwriter. The songs all have meaning; some deep, some not. You don't even have to listen to the lyrics as the songs are just as good if you choose to blank them out.