Robin Dean Salmon's colorful past means he has a rich source of biographical detail to tap into. He was born amid the turmoil of Apartheid riven South Africa, although his fiercely patriotric song 'America' makes it plain that he has no nostalgia for his native country.
His family moved to the States in 1977 and settled in San Antonio on a large horn cattle ranch. Influenced by CBGB punk, Salmon formed the band See No Evil which ultimately led to him relocating to New York. After a serious motorcycle accident he moved to Atlanta where he has since worked as a producer and on his own material.
Salmon may have found his original inspiration from the raw energy of punk, but 'Come On Home' is firmly rooted in the sound of alternative country music.
The album kicks off strongly with 'Ready Now', a song declaring his readiness to set down roots with his one true love. In spirit, this is reminiscent of Steve Earle's strident 'I Feel Alright' album.
Better still, is the next track - the rousing 'Arizona Rain' - a cracking song with a great driving beat which catalogues inspirational singers, writers and actors alongside memories of love, joy, heartache and pain - "bottle on the table - wine left in the glass - record on the player - the smell of pertrol gas".
After this impressive opening, the decision to follow with two very similar sounding love songs - 'You're The One' + 'Come On Home' blunts the edge somewhat. It highlights a problem of track sequencing which follows right through to the choce of final track - a novelty song - Daddy Is A Short Man - which is too stark a contrast to the preceding song – ‘Love Came Back’ - a gospel tinged tune about rediscovered faith ( "I reloaded Jesus in my heart to show me the way").
|
Basically, some ruthless editing would have made for a punchier album. I would also have pruned out the routine rocker - Last Train - mainly to give greater focus to Salmon's songwriting strengths which lie with material that touches upon darker themes. The sombre mood of 'I Feel Nothing', for example, is a standout track and all the better for some fine undertstated backing vocals by Marcia Ramirez.
Other highlights are in a potent song about fears of environmental disaster (Just A Matter Of Time) and the album's strongest track - 'Never Comin' Down'- which documents a bad trip and ends with the chilling couplet : "Screaming Jesus take the pain /Give me the gun".
The highs easily outnumber the lows and all told this is an enjoyable roller coaster ride which combines good time rockabilly with reflective alt country.
15 tracks Playing time - 53.15 mins
|
