Phil Vassar - Phil Vassar

Phil Vassar

By    Phil Vassar

Very Good Condition

Songwriters who make the jump to recording artist often have a tough time--either their personalities are too introverted or their voices better suited for demos than major-label debuts. But the piano-playing Vassar, who's penned hits for Jo Dee Messina, Tim McGraw, and Alan Jackson, should be able to take the leap in stride. Stylistically, he's gleefully reminiscent of other favorites: "Joe and Rosalita" is dead-on Billy Joel, "Like I Never Loved Before" seems straight out of Michael Peterson, and doesn't that piano line on "Lucky as Me" remind you of Bruce Hornsby? But whether he's a talented imitator or a marketer with an eye for the Billboard charts, Vassar's regular-guy vocals and upbeat persona--undeniably infectious and feel-good, despite several forays into mawkish ballads--seems just the ticket as country meanders through its current identity crisis. --Alanna Nash

A Review:

I first saw Phil Vassar as a guest on the televison show Nashville Star. He was providing advice and inspiration for the budding singer songwriters on the show.
I had no idea who he was and was sure he was just a songwriter and not a performer... boy was I wrong. Phil didn't necessarily look the part or fit the bill in a traditional sort of way. And that is more than okay!
I think that is the reason why I am drawn to him as a country artist. He seems very humble and a real "everyman". That really appeals to me.
This self titled album is full of honest, straightforward yet very creative songs. He has an upbeat approach and also is so deeply invested in his ballads that every word he sings rings so true.
The happy in everyday life song, "just another day in paradise" is an anthem for all of those average Joe's and working men and women. Phil embraces the life of a family man and portrays that convincingly in this awesome tune!
I enjoy his ballads. I especially liked the 4th track, "Rose bouquet." This song is filled with such whistfulness and longing. You surely can feel the pain in the lyrics.
Phil just comes across so honestly in everything he sings. I really like the fact that he knows who he is, and makes that apparent in all he writes and puts out there. Purchase this CD now and you will be won over to country music too!

Tracklist