Scott Free Wing Artists On Art Series CD Review - Robert Urban's  "Rock Widow"

Robert Urban's  "Rock Widow" Review for StoneWall Society By Scott Free Artists On Art Series ROBERT URBAN, a leader in today’s burgeoning New York queer music scene with his "Urban Productions BOLDLY Presents" rock shows & concerts, has released his fourth CD, entitled ‘ROCK WIDOW’.  He has, once again, created a masterful melodic epic, but this one is a more painful search for meaning amongst rock & roll’s ruins.       The sad, yet charming title refers specifically to the opening track ‘You Don’t Wanna Know’, a pure pop gem. This seductive song, in fact, could have been called ‘Rock Widow’, with its painfully honest lyrics about a gay rocker in the

straight world of rock & roll.  But ‘Rock Widow’ also refers to Robert’s view on the state of rock today. This CD is solidly grounded in the progressive rock of the 1970’s, complete with rolling r’s and keyboard arpeggios. It is a grandiose style, yes, and one that is rarely heard today, but its grounded lyrics and careful production make the CD touching, compelling, and human. And, although progressive rock and jazz are its starting points, Robert’s ability to write brilliant pop hooks makes this a timeless CD. Shining moments of brilliance are discovered in segues, bridges, and even song fade-outs. Each song is meticulously crafted, which shows a love and respect for the music. This is a masterpiece of intricacies, a bouquet of sonic compassion.
     The highlight of the CD is the triumphant ‘Ode to Central Park’, a musical tribute to the anonymous sexual encounters in the core of Manhattan Island that have continued unending for centuries. This gem, soon to be a queer classic, is treated with utmost reverence, a musical homage to desire which crescendos to an emotional climax.
     One of the most interesting additions to the CD was the inclusion of two songs written by Charles Ives, ‘The Cage’, and ‘Serenity’. Robert’s handling of these two completely unique songs shows the mastery of his art – his ability to bring out the right emotion through careful instrumentation and production.
     This is also very much a gay rock album. From the sensuality of ‘Ode to Central Park’ to the political activism of ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’, this explores the wide spectrum that is queer music. It is a triumphantly out album – a coming out of rock’s closet.
     This impeccably produced CD was done in Robert’s own Urban Productions recording studio, where queer musicians Yolanda, Marshal Zarne, and Rainbow Flava have recorded their music.
     With radio’s obsession with boy bands and forced rap, you may have forgotten the joys of the power-rock anthems. When done correctly, as ‘Rock Widow’ is, it is thrilling.

ROCK WIDOW's release date is March 25th, 2003 and will be available first at www.cdbaby.com
More info at www.roberturban.com

 - StoneWall Society review by SCOTT FREE  www.scottfree.net

     For more information on Scott Free, his music, and to get your copies of his talented offerings, visit his website.

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