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Ernie Halter
Starting Over
Rockridge Music
Starting Over, Ernie Halter's third CD release, extends the soul-inspired, pop-funky grooves that he laid in his two previous albums, Congress Hotel and Lo-Fidelity. From the edgy "Try" to the calypso-fusion "Crazy Love," from the ferocious cover of Baby Bash's "Cyclone" to the gentle closing ballad, "Lighthouse," Halter's voice reminds me variously of Al Green, Train and Peter Gabriel. Starting Over is great for dancing...or activities that might resemble dancing. With me, you may have to squint to tell the difference.
Halter's writing and singing have evolved on Starting Over. Songs are more focused and evocative, with elegant lines like, "I miss you like children miss summer/Like Southern California misses rain" ("Pretty Girl"), and smart, playful rhythms on tracks like "Just Friends" and "Blue Dress." Several tracks are acoustic, and these are just as striking as those with a full band. Halter's vocals sound more experienced, noticeably on tracks like "Different Lives" and "My Heart is With You." The CD, overall, is richer and more organic.
Halter, based in Los Angeles, actively uses MySpace and YouTube to connect with and broaden his audience. Friends and fans can request a cover—yes, he takes requests—which he posts on YouTube in a regular, ongoing series. To further prove that he's unafraid of pushing technology boundaries, Halter webcast recording sessions during Starting Over.
Starting Over is available now on iTunes and at most retailers.
—Lyn Dunagan
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