Lyle King: Standing StrongJan 30 '03 (Updated Jul 17 '04) Write an essay on this topic.The Bottom Line A great singer and guitar player from Vermont Those in the mood for something a bit lighter might want to look into the genre of solo singer/songwriters. I've heard many good ones over the years, and I'm proud to say that I know personally one of the most talented that I have heard so far. Lyle King, who comes from the snowy Burlington, VT area, is quite skilled with the acoustic guitar, and his vocals are excellent. King's music provides a perfect background for any laid-back occasion. Most of his material is soft, but he can still turn it up when he wants. When I was planning a charity event with my college radio station, I asked Lyle, who I knew because he was dating a friend of mine, if he would like to perform at the show. He jumped at the chance and was even kind enough to donate 20 percent of his album sales that night to the cause. I had heard only a few songs at that point, so it was nice to hear more of his material. He put on a great show that the crowd really got into, especially when he performed The Joker as well as a couple Adam Sandler tunes - Grow Old With You and Red Hooded Sweatshirt. After seeing him live, I had to pick up his brand new CD. The album, titled Left Standing, features 13 tracks, mostly mellow but all filled with energy and emotion. Packed with stunning arrangements and heartfelt lyrics, Left Standing is an excellent work from this up and coming musician. Highlights of the album include the lively Where I Belong, which breaks the album's overall softness with faster beats, especially with the piano and the energetic chorus: "I just wanna stay here/ I just wanna stay." Other songs such as Always and Cold Feet and Don't Wanna Fall keep it light while bringing up the speed in all the right spots. The upbeat mood doesn't last all the way, though. The nearly seven-minute I Miss You is a gut-wrenching breakup tale: "I've no recollection of our last kiss/ I guess that makes it easier to move on." It's a sad but superb way for King to demonstrate his versatility. The album's most essential track is the beautiful Angel. This love song has the perfect melodies to back up the touching lyrics: "My angel comes to me at night/ She likes to make sure I'm all right/ In my sleep I see her like she was there/ I know she'll always understand me." Why not include this on your next mix CD, guys? Trust me - the ladies'll love it. King's music can also be heard on a CD called Lyle King: In the Spotlight, which features 14 live cuts. His chilled-out yet upbeat sound is one that can appeal to many people and is perfect for an evening of kicking back and enjoying some excellent music. Also check out 5 A.M. Website: www.lyleking.com  |
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