“You Can’t Take” again confirms his writing credentials with a track that gently soaks into your subconsciousness. He is clearly a natural song writer with an equally natural talent for tapping straight in to the listeners emotions.
Gallery would appear to be the prefect title for this album. Each song leaves an impression like a photograph in an exhibition that stays implanted in your mind long after you have left. This particular Gallery is above all else consistent, confident, refreshing, and engaging. “Won’t Go On” has a deceptively powerful lyric that would have even the noisiest person in the audience ordering his drink quietly.
In a gizmo loaded, computer gadget world of over tinkering, this album’s strength is its simplicity. It celebrates the philosophy of letting the music do the talking above and beyond the trap of endless tweaking that others often fall into. Of course, this would only work with songs that have a stand alone strength to them.
If you need ‘sounds like’ references then take a little Pete Yorn, mix in an upbeat Elliott Smith, and add a little splash of Ryan Adams. It doesn’t stop there however and I can see why people also compare Dion to Snow Patrol’s song machine Gary Lightbody, or another UK band Keane. It’s that craft in the songs and the memorable choruses that help underpin that statement.
“Downwards” takes the album in a direction that belies its title. Meanwhile “Reconsider” introduces a little added colour with a subtle string arrangement. “So It Goes” has a simple yet strong emotionality to it. It arrives like a familiar friend and yet is one that you can’t possibly know. Not yet anyway.
“Blind World”, laments just that, whilst “I’ll Never Know” has a quirky bass line that has me wondering – is that the neighbour I can hear there in the background banging that broom? With a now familiar gift the song then opens out into yet another catchy chorus. Gallery ends with “Orchid” a gentle track enhanced by the addition of Kelsey ‘Junior’ Siegel’s lovely vocal.
Expertly crafted, simply constructed, infectiously catchy, and instantly warming, this is a Gallery you would do well to take a gentle stroll through.
Please visit Dion's website to hear some samples, check out those live dates, and find out how you can help spread the word.
Article comments
1 - Noah
After listening to Dion Roy's Gallery album over a dozen times, I can attest that it is really catchy. The words are great, and the music is pop-like, but in the good sense. Hope to hear more from this up-and-coming artist.
2 - Vardi Roy
What a great CD. We are so proud of you...This article is excellent, sums it all up 100%
3 - Ralph and Susan
Its good to read these comments, we love this CD and are waiting for the next one!!!
4 - Ben Scott
I have listened to Gallery many times over and it keeps getting better. The above review is right on target when it describes the music as "Fresh". Gallery strikes a balance of indie rock with the perfectly nuanced harmonies and strings to back up Dion's soulful lyrics. I love this album and think you will too.
5 - Dion Roy
Thanks so much for the comments guys! You guys are the best, seriously.