There's absolutely nothing like a pure singer-songwriter, somebody who can hold a room spellbound with just an acoustic guitar and his voice as he spins tales about modern life with plenty of melody, heart and wit.
Vince Bell was one of those songwriters, traveling the country throughout the 1970s and performing with like-minded souls Lucinda Williams and Guy Clark. But his career was cut short in 1982 when, driving home from a recording session, he was hit by a drunk driver, leaving him in a coma for a month.
But Bell miraculously survived, and twelve years later, he released the aptly named Phoenix, which earned him enough praise to attract the attention of Warner Brothers Records, resulting in 1999's Texas Plates. He is also the author of two books. One Man's Music chronicles his rehabilitation from the accident, and Sixtyeight Twentyeight, a collection of autobiographical essays and stories.
Now, Vince Bell returns with his fourth album, Recado, released on Steady Boy Records, and one listen should tell you why he has so frequently been compared with legendary songwriters like Townes Van Zandt and Randy Newman. His dusky voice occasionally wavers off-pitch, but he puts these songs across with so much emotion and heart that it's easy to overlook.
The prevailing theme, both in the songs and in Bell's story, is one of hope and optimism. "Give Chance A Chance" and "Done That Too" deal with the need to confront adversity with strength and courage. Other highlights include the lovely opener, "Isla," and "Ranch Land." Van Zandt's memory lives on through a moving tribute, "Gypsy," as well as a cover of his "Mr. Mudd and Mr. Gold."
Recorded in one session with just his unique mesquite guitar and minimal accompaniment, Recado is a powerful reminder of the importance of great songwriting and a hopeful perspective to get you through the hard times.
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