CHRIS LATERZO
American River
(c) (p) 1996 Yampa Records
10tks/41mins

The album "American River" is a call of free roads, voice of wild winds, wandering on endless scopes. This is the music of people being strong in spirit, who are not afraid to be natural, who are the real patriots of their land. It's interesting to notice, that during the listening to "American River", one has an impression, that if the competition for the title of the "Real American" would be held, in my opinion there is no doubt that Chris Laterzo certainly will win. Songs of Laterzo are full of patriotism. Here is a short extract: "Oh, Mother Earth of wisdom and grace I believe in the U.S. of A." (composition "Around the Sun"). Nevertheless, there are lot of pride for homeland in the composition "American River" (and this list could be continued). Still the songs by Laterzo are not sugary, so one can not have tears of tender emotions, while listening to the album.

By its style, the music of "American River" is a guitar country-rock. It is powerful, full of melody and has qualified arrangements (violin, accordion and, of course, harmonica are at present). In the music of "American River" I have heard the echoes of Tom Petty's singing. Also the composition "Ballad Of An Old Man", which contains slow thoughts of an old man, should be distinguished in the album.

In the album's booklet one can find the wish to the listener do not be shy to listen to the "American River" at a high volume. I can confirm this statement. If one can put the volume controls on an amplifier to the high level, the songs of Chris Laterzo can be more pleasant to hear.

Serge Kozlovsky