Roxi's First-Ever CD Review: Andrew Anderson - "As Long as This Thing's Flyin'"

Before starting this review, I searched "Andrew Anderson" on iTunes and was slightly upset by the fact that he is listed as "Unknown"! I mean, I know that this refers to the genre, but still, I'd find it vaguely insulting. But for iTunes' sake (and yours as well, I suppose), I shall clarify that Andrew Anderson is a Country & Western artist, with some rock leanings from time to time.

To be perfectly honest, I do not know much about country music. I know that there is a difference between Nashville sound and Honky-Tonk (a.k.a. "Bakersfield") sound...and that's about it. But I do understand what makes a good song and a good album, and Anderson's "As Long as This Thing's Flyin'" is a fantastic collection.

Other than a few technical glitches at the end of a few tracks, the sound quality of the album is untarnished by electronic production. Anderson is gifted with a vocal range and talent that most men would die for, and he plays a grand variety of instruments as well. The jacket credits him for piano, both electric and acoustic guitar, mandolin, and a brief stint on bass. He is accompanied by Luke Meade, Jeremy Harris and Ki Johnsen; the trio never overpower the frontman, but rather create the feel of a true down-home country band. I especially enjoyed Harris' work on the banjo, prominent in many tracks.

The topics addressed through Anderson's songs are easy to relate to, and quintessentially understood: Love, war, politics, and karma (listen to "Fists Up Chin Down" for this reference), to name a few. Due to a couple of words of profanity and some maturer topics, "As Long As This Thing's Flyin'" might be unsuitable for younger ears. On the other hand, the lyrics are genuine, not overly poetic and sung in Anderson's carefree twang.

To sum it all up, I highly recommend Andrew Anderson and his debut album "As Long as This Thing's Flyin'", whether you are a long-time fan of country, are exploring different genres, or even just looking for a genuinely talented artist.

You will probably enjoy the music of Andrew Anderson if you like: Zac Brown Band, Jack Johnson, John Mayer, and Barenaked Ladies. I know these are not all country artists, but I think you will probably recognize snippets of these well-known musicians in Mr. Anderson.

For more information on Anderson and his work, please visit his website.

He also has a MySpace page for your listening pleasure:)

Roxi G.'s Lyric Pick: "I don't know why I ever left this place
and I don't know why I'd choose not to see your face
everyday, everyday everyday

and I don't know how I ever was so sure
cause I don't know what I believe in anymore
now all i know is that I'm lonelier than sin
so come on darlin' won't you kiss me again" - "A Year Tomorrow" by Andrew Anderson


There you have it! My first CD review, and I hope you all enjoy the music! :)

Peace and Pianos,
Roxi G.