Mike McClure's music isn't easy to pin down. He composes singer/songwriter lyrics like "the hotel band played 'Hotel California'" in "Hotel Band," but kicks out the jams like a '70s rocker on "In My Ears." "Haunt Me No More" begins like a classic folk song and then, following the first verse, adds drums and bass. Like folk,
McClure's songs carry a message, but like country, he praises the simple things in life. To top all of this off, the closing song, "Between Two Thieves," adds a Christian point of view. While the sum of these many parts may sound disparate,
McClure's raspy vocals and songwriting bring all the parts together to form a satisfying whole. On the opening number and "World Go Round,"
McClure decries the fast pace of contemporary life. The narrator of "Haunt Me No More" advises one to "go make some changes, this is your canvas to paint/and don't let nobody, try to tell you that you can't." In "World Go Round," the singer recalls a simpler life without answering machines and e-mail. He's joined by vocalist Susan Gibson for nice duets on "Wicked Game of Hearts" and "Harder to Ignore."
Twelve Pieces achieves a good sound with basic arrangements and
McClure's music will appeal to anyone who enjoys a good Texas-style singer/songwriter. ~ Ronnie D. Lankford, Jr.