BERNIE JELLEMA

Lions & Clowns

2008-12-14

Holland native Bernie Jellema delivers a concept record for his first recording, a song-cycle that moves from folk to rock to country and back. It reminded me of Neil Young's "Cowgirl in the Sand" opus from NY's second solo CD, or even "Country Girl" from CSN&Y's classic "Deja Vu." Some songs move from slow to uptempo to back again; others feature a decidedly rock or country foundation. The title track, "Summer" and "Heartland" are examples of these musical short stories. If you're in a rock mode, choose "The Whole World" or "Freckles"; "Ribbon," "Poverty Lane" and "Highway" are folk-based -- the latter sounds like a Grateful Dead outtake. Ambitious music, locally provided. Holland artist Tom DePree created the interesting cover. F-Rock LOCAL. 12/08 Michael J.

Quick Links:

More reviews tagged #Folk

  • reviewed 08/2006

    Ani DiFranco: Reprieve
    Reprieve

  • reviewed 02/2008

    ELLIS
    Break The Spell

  • reviewed 03/2007

    THE INFAMOUS STRINGDUSTERS
    Fork In The Road

  • reviewed 03/2014

    THE 23 STRING BAND
    bangin' and clangin'

  • reviewed 07/2016

    Eyes Unclouded
    Eyes Unclouded

  • reviewed 07/2007

    JASON ISBELL
    Sirens of the Ditch

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.