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Reed Waddle
Piece by Piece
Independent
Reed Waddle's Piece by Piece is a contemporary blues-rock album with catchy melodies and strong songwriting. Inevitably comparable to John Mayer and Dave Matthews, Piece by Piece nevertheless stands squarely on its own as a collection of radio-friendly tracks. Whether it's the laid-back titular track, the funky "My Honeycomb," or the reggae-drenched "Natural Elevation," Piece by Piece showcases an emotional range and depth that is clearly ready to break out into a wider audience.
Though Waddle has worked mostly as a DIYer, John Oates (Hall and Oates) participates on Piece by Piece. The two met through producer Jamie Rosenberg, and Waddle recorded most of the CD at Oates' Colorado studio. The pair collaborated in writing "Good Night Los Angeles," and Oates added background vocals to several tracks.
There's so much that's so good about this album, with its smooth, down-home feel and straightforward grooves. "Ready to Run," "Weeping Willow," and "Velveteen Skies" deserve broader attention, as do "Remember the Roses," and "Love Ain't Always on Time." Piece by Piece is a solid CD.
—Lyn Dunagan
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