Description:
`The ex-Del-Lords/Dictators` guitarist first solo album in 16 years is an impressive return that dials down the volume for a sturdy, heartfelt set of urban rock and soul that is never less than well conceived and often emotionally stirring. . . Similar to an East Coast version of Dave Alvin, Kempner doesn`t have a great voice but it`s good enough and his flinty talk-sung delivery lasers in on the emotional intensity on ballads such as "Passion Red." ... Like Bruce Springsteen, Kempner understands his influences but isn`t shackled to them. He hammers these songs with the iconic echoes of classic rock and roll without sounding clichd or retro. The result is timeless music, informed by sharp lyrics, tough melodies, tight playing and a dynamic mix of bravado leavened by a vulnerability that makes this gutsy material personal, passionate and urgent.` -- Hal Horowitz, allmusic.com
