“Rock River is a winner and should find a place in your head. It’s
already found a place in mine. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED” - 4/1/14 Rob Ross, Popdose
Rock River, the new solo album from Deena Shoshkes of New
Jersey’s The Cucumbers, is a breath of fresh pop air that I welcome.
For someone who’s put out great records for over two-plus decades, this
album sounds like someone (re)discovering the joys of constructing
great, tuneful music. Add to that some great production (by Rob
Friedman), which does justice to the songs and you have a fine,
consistent piece of work.
Starting with the immediate grabber, “My Own Advice”, you’re on a
breathless ride of two minutes pop perfection; “Find The Love” has a
nice groove and is incredibly catchy. “Bring It All” is a country-styled
tune which exudes sweetness; “All She Wrote” is a neat little chugger
and “You Will Never Be My Valentine” is one of the album’s saddest
songa, yet by virtue of Deena Shoshkes’ vocals, there is a gentility
that lessens the emotion behind the lyrics. “Always Tomorrow” is pure
Nashville with beautiful pedal steel guitars and subtle rimshots and is
(possibly) the album’s most fully realized track.
This album is 12 songs of quality songwriting, singing with feeling
and production that fits each song – in many ways the different song
styles – some pop, some country – make this album read. And I think that may be its secret weapon. Regardless, Rock River is a winner and should find a place in your head. It’s already found a place in mine.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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