Sean Altman's roots in updated a cappella are again on display in his first solo release after leaving Rockapella. He is attracted to involved pop-rock arrangements for which, through the magic of technology, he creates all the sounds with his own voice. Real musical instruments turn up here and there, but they are virtually indistinguishable from the vocal tracks. Anyone who thinks you can't create believable imitations by this method should refer to
Todd Rundgren's 1985 A Cappella album, not to mention the
Mills Brothers. The Rundgren comparison is a key one, in fact, like that wizard and true star,
Altman is an inventive pop stylist who is occasionally too precious for his own good, especially when he indulges in
Jerky Boys-like phone harassment of record labels. His solo debut is an overstuffed showcase of his talents, but those talents are nevertheless apparent. (Available from
Sean Altman's Web site, www.bigsean.com, or by calling 1 800 711-3627.) ~ William Ruhlmann