Bright Fading Star
Artist: Reid Maclean
Label: Independent
Tracks: 11

Once upon a time there was an amazing group that went by the name "Spinoza." The band was made up of two primary songwriters named Reid Maclean and Lee Kizer the Third. The band split their time between New York City and Boston with both cities claiming them as their own. They released three wonderful albums filled with great music before parting ways. Fast forward a number of years and Reid Maclean has released his first solo project entitled Bright Fading Star and oh what a release it is. 

Following in the footsteps of his former venture this album is full of the quality music that listeners have come to expect from this talented young songwriter. Catchy tunes, a great vocal presence and highly intelligent lyrics are all a standard of the Maclean catalogue. Along for the ride this time are former "Spinoza" partner Lee Kizer as well as Colin McGrath and Rachel Taylor of the Boston based band "Maeve" among others. The album was produced by William Berlind for C-Side Productions and mixed at the "Magic Shop" by Brian Thorn.

Some of the best songs on the album are "Keep It To Yourself,""Ne'er Do-Well," and "Love Is An Ocean" featuring Rachel Taylor on backing vocals. Actually that is somewhat of a misnomer because there are no bad songs on this album. A release with no filler, what a concept! Unless something really amazing comes along within the next few months rest assured that Bright Fading Star will be in my topten list of albums for the year. Check out more information at www.spinoza.com. 

Chris Macintosh aka Grandfather Rock