CASEY STRATTON

The Crossing

2007-07-23

Lansing-born and now a Grand Rapids resident, Casey Stratton has gone independent after a disappointing experience with Sony Records. “The Crossing” showcases a talented singer-songwriter. Some have criticized for not being more distinctive, for trying to sound like Tori Amos or Sarah McLachlan, and in fact when I first heard this disc (in a noisy daycare center) I was momentarily reminded a little of Tori, but it’s a very superficial resemblance (if you want to hear someone who REALLY is trying to be Tori, listen to Charlotte Martin). A graduate of Interlochen Arts Academy, Stratton’s higher range is remarkable – on some tracks his voice is positively feminine – and he plays most of the instruments on this album. Each track is listenable; his lyrics are very personal and introspective. The only track I don’t care much for is “False Prophet,” a somewhat sophomoric protest song. I’ve had this disc in my car this last week and have listened to it three times through. I’m liking it more on each listen. This is some good stuff from a Michigan artist. Tim Smith

More reviews tagged #Rock

  • reviewed 08/2006

    Joseph Arthur
    Nuclear Daydream

  • reviewed 05/2006

    Jon Auer
    Songs From The Year Of Our Demise

  • reviewed 10/2006

    BECK
    The Information

  • reviewed 12/2006

    MIDLAKE
    The Trials of Van Occupanther

  • reviewed 06/2016

    David Leask
    The Clarke Hill Sessions

  • reviewed 02/2006

    THE BUFFALI
    Kerfuffle No. 10

Compiled by the WYCE Journalism Club

The opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.