Brian Vander Ark - Brian Vander Ark 7/10
- Brian Vander Ark and his musical genius, I think, stems from his tendency to be soft spoken and his equally balanced band, which all blend into perfect harmony. His self entitled album inspires relaxation and allows you to enter the mindset of tranquility. It’s not sad, nor obscenely upbeat and happy. It manages to find a common ground that seems to speak to the listener and be able to address all of America.

The music typically follows a slower tempo, but manages to work with captivating vocals as it's backed up by a wonderful set of instruments to propel everything forward in a positive light. Even the lyrics are intriguing as they allow us to hone in and reflect upon oneself. The sound has a mixture of possibly folk or country with soft rock. It kind of sets you in the frame to go on some sort of adventure, or at the very least travel â€" preferably by van, perhaps? That’s my take.

Brian Vander Ark doesn’t seem to be an egomaniac as his unique voice has a memorable presence. It fades in and out as he allows the band to weave in with rifts and solos. I mean, let’s be honest â€" no one wants to hear one guy blabber on about God knows what. There’s an excellent variety on the album as each track doesn’t take on the same form. They all follow the same sound, but are altered enough to give each one a distinctive identity rather than have them run together. Brian Vander Ark found a balance that is both captivating and soothing to listeners, which can be quite rare nowadays.

Reviewer: John Berkowitz