CD Review: Leon Newton - Race Car Junky

Leon Newton - Race Care Junky
2007, Leon Newton

Low budget recording does have its advantages. From the perspective of a reviewer, there is less distraction in the form of effects. It leaves the music bare to be judged on its own in the harsh light of what it sounds like without embellishment. This can either be good or bad for the artist or material. In the case of Leon Newton's Race Car Junky, it's good.

Leon Newton is a decorated songwriter; a finalist in 2007 Song Of TheYear Contest in the country category. His voice is interesting, with a country drawl that disappears seemingly at will and an Elvis-like vibrato that shows up in the long, slow vocal passages.

Race Car Junky is a collection of mellow country/pop songs. The energy in this recording is very reserved, almost to a fault. The lyrical content is somewhat cliché and at times trite, but Newton occasionally pulls a gem out of his hat, such as Too Late, Welcome Love and Breaking Up.

Race Car Junky will appeal to fans of mellow country. It has enough high points to make it worth a listen, but not enough to make it unforgettable.

Rating: 3 Stars (Out of 5)

You can purchase a copy of Race Car Junky at www.cdbaby.com/leonnewton.