Lies & Wishes is the debut album from Edward David Anderson, at least as a solo artist. The record is set for release April 29, 2014 under the Royal Potato Family label. From the first bar of the opening title track your mind starts reeling trying to figure out where you’ve heard that singer. When finally deciphered, you remember that voice as fronting Backyard Tire Fire up until the split of the band in 2011. BTF was a band that came on my radar in 2004 after I heard their phenomenal live album from The Georgia Theater that was released in 2002. Having gained a following by bands like Clutch and Cracker, to name a couple, and touring with several national acts including Los Lobos; Anderson struck up a friendship with Steve Berlin. Most notably known as handling horns and some keyboard work for Los Lobos, Steve Berlin has amassed producer credits with numerous artists as well as adding his musicianship as a session player. Steve has also been involved in numerous side projects including Diamond Rugs, a stellar “super-group” of sorts including members of Deer Tick, The Black Lips, and Dead Confederate. Anderson and Berlin’s relationship grew and has led to Steve producing Edward’s first solo record Lies & Wishes. Judging from this effort, I hope they continue to work together.
As mentioned before, the record opens with the title track “Lies & Wishes”, a beautiful arrangement of acoustic guitar, flanked by some keyboard fills, perfect amount of distortion fueled electric guitar notes, delayed drums, and that voice–very original sound to it, which is refreshing this day in age. Edward David Anderson’s simplistic way of life is inherently evident in his approach to song writing. “Son Of A Plumber” is a prime example. “Hard livin’ man, workin’ with my hands, doin’ what I know how to do” is as much autobiographical as it is a song about a father and family; pure folk with an accordion lathed chorus. The record then quickly switches gears into what could be a Backyard Tire Fire rocker circa 2007 with “Taking It Out On You”. Anderson showcases his love song writing prowess with beautifully penned songs “I Missed You” and “Fires”. “Chain Reaction” is an exceptional life lesson of a song complete with a stripped down banjo riff and oft times spooky key board synths. All in all Lies & Wishes is a superb solo effort by Edward David Anderson, grasping at folk rock but still orbiting Americana.
This record is overflowing with real emotion. Having been through the breakup of Backyard Tire Fire and the loss of not only his own mother, but that of his wife’s too, that should not be utterly surprising. “ The Next Melody” closes out Lies & Wishes and it’s my interpretation this is Edward David Anderson’s mantra putting the past 5 years of loss behind him., “ Roll on, roll on, find the next place to sing; roll on, roll on, song is gonna set you free”. Ain’t that the truth! Preach On Mr. Anderson. Aside from the great song writing, the production is a viable asset to this record, most notably the arrangements of the drums. They are almost haunting throughout. Steve Berlin uses the smallest sounds from various instruments that fit into the mix so well you barely notice they’re present, however, it’s those complexities that actually make the song bloom into what Anderson is trying to portray–truly a team effort on this record between the two. Lies & Wishes is a definite must have addition to your record collection. The Royal Potato Family has done it again, this release should only add to their mystique as purveyors of a true Indie label, constantly releasing REAL good music. April 29, 2014 is your opportunity to get involved.
***Please visit Sad Songs Keep The Devil Away at www.ssktda.com for more musings***
+Words by Scott Zuppardo+
