Digging for Small Gems (album review)

[Livia]

http://spectrum.buffalo.edu/article.php?id=29809

Digging for small gems
RACHEL SHERIDAN - Staff Writer
When artists decide to go solo, the result is usually disastrous. Yet, former Fleetwood Mac member Lindsey Buckingham has proven that he can break away and still retain his musical credibility.

"Under the Skin" is not an impressive album. Almost all of the tracks on it sound the same, but the lyrics are redeeming. Inspired and poetic, they showcase Buckingham's skill as an experienced songwriter.

"Castaway Dreams" is the track that exemplifies this talent the best.

"It would do no good to drown in the sea/ Where no one remembers their name/ and nothing but nothing is free," sings Buckingham.

The title track has a beautifully simple guitar melody, one that carries the song along entirely. It works in harmony with Buckingham's husky voice.

"Down on Rodeo" is influenced by country music, simplistic in its expression of missed opportunities and the fluidity of time.

"We never took quite enough chances/ We never had quite enough time."

Although the lyrics are simple, there is a power of feeling in Buckingham's voice that is capable of inspiring the listener.

His guitar skills shine on "Shut Us Down," a song some may recognize from the film, "Elizabethtown."

Its infectious guitar line adds multiple layers even though the song only features Buckingham singing and playing by himself. The track creates positive sensations despite its talk of "a child is born, another dies." Buckingham can discuss terrible issues without becoming bogged down in the material, keeping the album light.

Much of the album is filled with romantic songs and as a result, it is refreshing when a slightly more up-tempo track comes along.

"Show Me How" displays Buckingham's vocal abilities as he slips from high to low notes with ease, and the beat makes it irresistible.

The album doesn't vary much, but Buckingham is tremendously talented when it comes to chilling out with feeling.