George Gelish: Don’t Quit Your Day Job

It’s refreshing, perhaps paradoxically, to hear a full set of music as resolutely out of fashion as slide guitar specialist George Gelish’s new home-produced CD “Don’t Quit Your Day Job.” Combining many of the elements that formed what’s now called classic rock with a knack for catchy riffs and choruses, Gelish crafts a set of tunes that really take you back to the 70s and deserve much better production.

Each song has a different flavor. It’s mostly Gelish’s guitar work that ties them together. A taste of the Allmans (“Dirty Little Secrets”), a touch of Springsteen (“Frisbee Park”), a little psychedelia (“Do Whatcha Want”), plenty of country blues, and flavors reminiscent of BTO, Elvis Costello and and even smooth jazz all contribute to the package. Unfortunately the vocals are recorded poorly, and their strength varies widely from song to song. Gelish’s conviction and passion for the music makes up only partially for these shortcomings. But, with a few exceptions, the songwriting is very good.

Sadly, I suspect that even a professionally produced version of this CD would not find commercial success, since the style is so unselfconsciously retro. But it would certainly be a welcome addition to my collection, and that of anyone to whom classic rock means more than just nostalgia.

Available at CD Pimp