DOUG GILLARD

Parade On

2014-04-28

After substantial runs as sideman for Guided By Voices and Nada Surf, Doug Gillard is taking control of his own destiny with Parade On, his third official solo album. He wrote the 11 songs on the album, he sings lead, he plays lead guitar, and he also comes in and plays bass, keys, percussion, and does some of his own backing vocals. A few drummers hop in to help him out here and there, and he gets some help from a few additional background singers, but Parade On is his baby.

A fine baby it is. Indie-pop sensitivity adds air and lightness to a pleasing and easy to swallow excursion. The first five cuts are long on rhythm and short on melodic hooks, so much of Parade On will leave pleasant but vague memories. Things get rockier in the second half (and that's a good thing!)  For a bit more drive, try #6 Overseas and #9 No Perspective. #7 Come Out and Show Me feels a bit like Tommy-era Who.

--Gerald Etkind

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Rock

  • reviewed 09/2017

    Lazarus
    Rock N Roll Heart

  • reviewed 01/2007

    CANADA
    The Cursed House

  • reviewed 07/2004

    Martina Topley-Bird
    Anything

  • reviewed 01/2012

    SHANNON WHITWORTH & BARRETT SMITH
    Bring It On Home

  • reviewed 06/2006

    Camera Obscura
    Let's Get Out Of This Country

  • reviewed 07/2007

    CROWDED HOUSE
    Time on Earth

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.