While Jimmy Keegan’s name is mostly known in prog rock circles, having drummed for Spock’s Beard and Pattern-Seeking Animals, this review isn’t for that crowd, because Keegan’s self-titled solo record is going to appeal to a far broader audience.
Los Angeles-based drummer and vocalist, Jimmy Keegan, has put together an outstanding collection of songs that is everything from quirky to campy to eclectic. Think Tuesday Night Supper Club, Toy Matinee, Kevin Gilbert and friends, and you’re in the right ballpark to enjoy this wonderful record.
Keegan drums and sings throughout the record, while also playing keys on nearly every track. He’s joined by a variety of talented musicians on guitars, bass, additional keys, a string section, and more. “Famous” bandmates Ted Leonard, Dave Meros, and Ryo Okumoto make brief appearances, but in no way is this party about them as every player on this record is as good as the next.
This a classic sounding record with a vintage rock vibe at times, occasional theatrical moments, and plenty of pop rock moments. From the Don Henley vibe of “Where Settlers Go” to the Last Train Out-ish, funky vibe of “7:00 a.m.” to the Talking Heads meets INXS vibe of “Crosseyed and Painless” to the Shaming of the True-ish “Platinum,” there’s just a great vibe that takes you on a fun listening journey from song to song.
Musicians will find this record full of fabulous performances on all instruments, but especially the drums and percussion, bass, and guitars. Keegan also gets to show off what a talented vocalist he is.
| Jimmy Keegan, Jimmy Keegan |
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| Genre: | Pop, Rock, Eclectic, Prog |
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| Overall Rating: | (3.88 out of 4) |
Jimmy Keegan’s solo record is a masterful pop rock record, wonderfully performed and produced, that sadly won’t get the attention it deserves due to the US just not having enough great musical outlets to promote it. But if you crave music that doesn’t sound like the same old everything, or you yearn for music “like they used to make,” do yourself a favor a pick up a copy of this record. You won't be disappointed.
