Jim Basnight has been a bright light shining upon the independent music scene for the past four decades. Aside from fronting noted bands like the Moberlys and the Rockinghams and the Indianola, Washington-based singer, songwriter and guitarist has attained universal recognition as a solo artist.
Basnight’s well-received latest album, Not Changing (Precedent Records), firmly crystalizes his knack for penning and playing roots-driven pop rock. A great storyteller, his perceptive narratives flow with rhyme and rhythm. Sharp melodies, linked with imaginative arrangements also characterize Jim Basnight’s repertoire.
Owing a wink to the down-home vocals of John Fogerty and Tom Petty, Basnight delivers each and every song on Not Changing with earnest passion. Whether of a personal or social nature, his lyrics are never boring and immediately grab the listener’s attention.
Carved of a mid-tempo pace, the title track of the album conveys a positive message about being content with one’s self and accepting life the way it is.
Songs such as “Best Lover In the World” and “Making Love For a Living” slink, swing and sway with glitter boogie styled sensibilities, while Jim Basnight’s “Kurt Cobain” and “Saturday Dream” rest in a moodier environment and include some cool time changes.
A heavy intensity powers “Big Bang,” where “You Never Cease to Amaze Me” and “Living the Way I Want” weigh in as straight-forward rock-a-rama goodies, pronounced by cooking guitar chords and clinging hooks.
Earthy, yet possessing a sound that is fresh and full, Not Changing is the kind album the Rolling Stones would have recorded during their Let It Bleed/Sticky Fingers period. Blue-collar rock with brains, filtered through a rather punky vibe, Not Changing reveals the heart, soul and mind of Jim Basnight with glorious results.
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