Donald Benjamin Delivers with “Reborn”
There’s a huge difference between creating a successful work of musical art and imitating one. Donald Benjamin easily navigates that line with his songwriting, delivering a large amount of the prior, on Reborn, which was produced by award-winning artist and producer Eric Johnson at Maple Hill Studios.
The songs on Reborn follow the blueprint for modern country-rock success. Though difficult to determine which genre best suits him (if there must be only one), Benjamin showcases his vocal ability and songwriting skill at very high levels, which would serve him well in either.
He delivers an emotional, painful moment of self-discovery on “Used To,” the album’s opening track. With his unique, unbridled delivery, the song’s chorus hooks its claws into you, like an ex-flame that you just cannot get out of your mind.
Track two — the gritty, gnarly western/biker themed “Rider” — is a soundly written, badass tune about a renegade’s life on the run. It’s very “rebel-esque,” and the song translates well.
“Superstition” is a unique, re-imaged take on the Stevie Wonder classic. With a more Western sound, it keeps its original intent but adds a hint of rabel-rousing flare. As far as covers, this one has become one of my favorites, from any artist.
“Last Man Standing,” the first single from Reborn, was released nearly a year before the finished product hit shelves. This song packs in so much emotional baggage, you can almost feel the sadness and melancholy in Benjamin’s soul. The song’s video, likewise, was done in perfect harmony with its lyrical intent. This is a standard “broken-hearted love song,” with simplistic musical accompaniment. It’s his delivery, however, which makes it stand out.
The album’s final track, “Tears of the Sun,” is the most devious on the record. A deeply personal and emotionally devastating journey, the sadness is quantified by the backing instrumentation, which has an almost “horror soundtrack” feel. With each line, tolling bell, and key change, the song becomes more intense and forboding. It sounds unlike anything else on the album and, whether intentional or not, adds just the right touch to the finale.
Reborn is, from my perspective, well-planned, well-written, and well-done. With a national tour quickly approaching (January, from the information on his website), there is a very high ceiling for this songwriter. This latest album is, certainly, one that should be listened to — and felt.
Reborn was released on October 3rd, 2014 and is available on iTunes, Rhapsody, Spotify and other outlets.