Jody Porter (Fountain of Wayne) released a solo album this year, Close to the Sun, that’s very reminiscent of Robyn Hitchcock. It’s Porter’s voice and a Beatlesque approach to pop rock. However, unlike Hitchcock’s normal approach, Porter’s album is much more guitar-centric and a lot less obtuse lyrically. Still, as Porter growls “never you mind the weather” on “Waiting for the Stars,” you can hear Hitchcock’s breathy vocals all over the place.
Close to the Sun, though, comes with its various shades, an album richly produced and well laid out. “Aurora” surprisingly has this Old 97s/AltCountry backbeat within the Beatlesque Britrock milieu. Although maybe that shouldn’t be surprising considering that the album opens with a riff on “Twilite” that’s reminiscent of the swagger of the Katie Todd Band, a Country-influenced Rock outfit.
There’s also a throwback sound recalling the psychedelic-tinged swirl of School of Fish, a 90’s Guitar/Garage Rock, especially on the cosmic “To the Moon” and the urgent “Cars on the Motorway.” “You’re Not Alone” shows off Porter’s guitar pyrotechnics. Then on “Hide in the Light” comes a disco ball rhythm which is equipped with great effects and fills. Towards the close of the album, the Stonesy “The Kids Get Higher” swaggers with a bluesy stagger.
Jody Porter
Engine Room Recordings
