Adam Cohen
Album: We Go Home
Label: Cooking Vinyl
Tracks: 11
Website: http://www.adamcohen.com/

When I received this album I was slightly nervous. Firstly, because it was not the album that I had requested to review. Secondly, as I have never really been a fan of Leonard Cohen and I assumed this would be very similar.

On receiving it something struck me right away. I have now four albums in my collection that are recorded by sons of famous fathers. Julian Lennon (son of John,) Ben Taylor (son of James,) Harper Simon (son of Paul,) and now Adam Cohen (son of Leonard.) This made me think and wonder how their parents feel about the music their sons make; in John's case this is not relevant as he is long gone. How do the sons feel? Do they try to emulate their illustrious parents? Does it help to have a famous name or hinder progress?

Adam Cohen produces a mixed brand of music. Some, not unlike his Father's brand, other songs are quite light and uplifting. Adam does not go for an overproduced album. Much of the backing is simple using either a nylon string guitar or piano.

Three years ago and after making three albums, Adam became disenchanted with the music industry and retired. However, luckily for him and for us he decided to give it another go. He released a very successful album entitled "Like a man." His Father described that album as a "set of world class love songs." His fifth and latest album is "We go home." It would be good to hear what Leonard makes of this as I think it is a terrific album. Adam says that the songs on the album mostly chronicle conversations he has had with his father or wants to have with his son.

The opening track, "Song of me and you" is a beautiful opening track and sets the mood for the rest of the album. Simple and very very listenable. "We go home" has a touch of Bob Dylan about it even if it is slightly faster than you would normally associate with Bob. It even has a bit of choral backing to add to the feel of the song. "So much to learn" sounds as though it has come straight from Woodstock. "Love is" whatever you do with it. Very profound! "What kind of woman" has a real gospel feel to it! "Fall apart" is a song for all sons to sing about their fathers. "Swear I was there" is, for me at least, the stand out track on the album. Beautiful words combined with simple backing. I could listen to this track over and over. "Boats" the final track finishes the album off delightfully even if it is a very short track.

Keen musicians should listen carefully to the beautiful yet simple guitar work. Keen lyricists should listen carefully to all the songs and see how a real storyteller weaves his thoughts and passion in to music.

So, despite my initial concerns about the album, I have been blown away with the simplistic beauty of it all. Adam now has a new fan, me.

His forthcoming tour dates are on the website although his appearances in the UK are very limited.

Rory Stanbridge