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 01/2007

    BACKYARD TIRE FIRE
    Vagabonds and Hooligans

  • reviewed 11/2014

    Eliot Lipp
    Watch the Shadows

  • reviewed 07/2007

    The Rosebuds
    Night of the Furies

  • reviewed 05/2009

    JARVIS COCKER
    Further Complications

  • reviewed 01/2006

    ROB DICKINSON
    Fresh Wine for the Horses

  • reviewed 11/2008

    THE CLASH
    The Clash: Live at Shea Stadium

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.