BERNIE JELLEMA

Lions & Clowns

2008-12-14

Holland native Bernie Jellema delivers a concept record for his first recording, a song-cycle that moves from folk to rock to country and back. It reminded me of Neil Young's "Cowgirl in the Sand" opus from NY's second solo CD, or even "Country Girl" from CSN&Y's classic "Deja Vu." Some songs move from slow to uptempo to back again; others feature a decidedly rock or country foundation. The title track, "Summer" and "Heartland" are examples of these musical short stories. If you're in a rock mode, choose "The Whole World" or "Freckles"; "Ribbon," "Poverty Lane" and "Highway" are folk-based -- the latter sounds like a Grateful Dead outtake. Ambitious music, locally provided. Holland artist Tom DePree created the interesting cover. F-Rock LOCAL. 12/08 Michael J.

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Folk

  • reviewed 04/2007

    DEVON ALVES
    Across That River

  • reviewed 04/2012

    JOE FLETCHER AND THE WRONG REASONS
    White Lighter

  • reviewed 09/2009

    MALCOLM HOLCOMBE
    For the Mission Baby

  • reviewed 02/2014

    ROOSEVELT DIME
    FULL HEAD OF STEAM

  • reviewed 02/2006

    JENNY LEWIS with THE WATSON TWINS
    Rabbit Fur Coat

  • reviewed 02/2016

    On and On
    And The Wave Has Two Sides

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.