B.G. (Brad) Scribner, long-time drummer for the Little Sammy Davis and Midnite Slim band, covers new and unexpected ground in this eponymously titled self-release. Consisting of just four tracks, this release offers an eclectic mix, both lyrically and musically, that demands a second and even a third listening to fully appreciate

The opening track, "No Fishin' On Sunday", addresses a universal myth, that of the Devil's Hole, in a contemporary lyrical context. The Devil's Hole, variously a deep hole in a river or lake or a deep fissure in a mountain, is a recognized component of Native American, African-American, aboriginal Australian, Scottish, and even Teutonic mythology. In this instance, Scribner tells the tale of a preacher foolish enough to challenge Satan himself by dropping a line in Devil's Hole---on a Sunday no less. Set against a swing rhythm that segues to a "flat-tire" between verses, the concept works surprisingly well. Or perhaps we shouldn't be surprised; the breadth of the mythology confirms that we've always been fascinated with the concept of facing up to the Devil, and like Robert Johnson's trek to the Crossroads, in fear of the possible consequences. While you won't hear a I-IV-V progression on this track or anywhere else on this CD, the concept for No Fishin' On Sunday has deep roots both in the Blues and in our collective consciousness.

The track is well-produced and executed by a crack ensemble consisting of Scribner on drums and piano, brother Fred Scribner on slide guitar, Michael Ciliberto on lead guitar and bass, and vocalist Jake Lee Rau. The latter is a surprising but effective choice---one typically pictures a male protagonist in a confrontation with the Devil---and the choice of a female narrator is a refreshing change.

Perhaps the standout track, The New Rolling Stones (are asleep) is a deceptively simple tune that draws you ever deeper with each listen. Eerily reminiscent of Neil Young's best work without sounding derivative, this track works on multiple levels. At its simplest, it's a lament for the current state of popular music:

Hard not to agree, but the concept broadens with each verse to become a poignant meditation on loss---paradise lost, the promise of generation lost, and the loss of faith in our political and religious leaders:

Impressive and telling lyrics that provide will provide some "small comfort" to those willing to listen.

Vocalist Michael Ciliberto enhances the Neil Young vibe with a thoughtful reading of the lyrical content and is joined by Scribner on drums and piano, and Ciliberto again on bass and guitar. Some excellent guitar work here--think long-time Jackson Browne sideman David Lindley and you won't be far off.

This swinging, jazz-inflected tune reprises Jake Lee Rau on vocals, joined by Scribner on drums and piano, Michael Ciliberto on guitars, Doug Abramson on bass guitar, and saxophonist Chris DiFrancesco. An infectious hook and bridge are complemented by melodic, tasty sax fills and a trumpet-like wah-wah guitar solo. In plain speak---this tune is good, clean fun---no doubt about it.

In a sense perhaps a counter-point to "The New Rolling Stones (are asleep), "Even As I Speak", the CD's closing track, speaks at once to the frailty of our existence, and of the hope that maintains our faith that "dreams are never lost, you hold on my friend to what you've got." Again Scribner's lyrics are deceptively simple at first glance, expanding with each listen to broader territory and more universal concepts--- surely the mark of a lyricist in command of his craft. Featuring Scribner on piano and Charles Lang on keyboards and lead vocal, "Even As I Speak" is both well-produced and executed.