Tad Dreis “The Reluctant Hook (and the day that it caught)” (Independent, 2009)

An oddly engaging look at everyday life.

Tad Dreis comes from Chapel Hill, North Carolina and seems to be big on the college scene there. This is his fourth self released album and he presents a set of songs (or observations) with a sly humour which is slightly surrealistic in the sense that John Lennon could be. These twelve songs of quirky tales of everyday life are peopled by a roster of oddballs (omniscient telephone sales staff, a boy in love with a rug) or ordinary folk doing nothing out of the ordinary such as teenagers electronically communicating in a mall.

With some very pleasant melodies Dreis sings in a light manner, almost deadpan, as he recounts these tales. His lyrics do not simply tell a story but are opaque and require close attention. On the best cuts ('The Rug That Swore' and 'Armchair Warrior') his band provide excellent support with subtle guitar, banjo, keyboards and cello.

Overall a very satisfying set from a collegiate satirist who actually has a liking for the type of people he writes about.

Date review added:  Monday, October 05, 2009
Reviewer:  Paul Kerr
Reviewers Rating:
Related web link:  Get hooked here