Paul Curreri - The Velvet Rut

Paul Curreri is both brave and eclectic. On The Velvet Rut he runs the gamut of the blues from mean drunk aggression (Mantra), through ragtime sketches (The Ugly Angel) to the meandering closer, Freestylin' Crost the Pond. Adding a theatrical edge to the usual Americana seriousness, his lyrics tend to wander or disappear into word-association, even as his guitar picking pushes the pace. Curreri is amiable and playful, toying with sauntering pop on Loretta and never taking himself too seriously. While this makes The Velvet Rut an easier listen than most po-faced New Country or free-folk, it does detract from Curreri's intensity and his brief instrumental interludes - which might have leavened a more intense set - become fluffy filler. It is almost as if he undermines his undeniable talent by retreating into a slightly awestruck, comedic personality, going for a laugh when he could be aiming for the heart. [Gareth K Vile]