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Andrew McCutcheon Out of the Lion`s Mouth Review by Gary Hill This CD is the debut for both McCutcheon as a solo artist and Plum Meat as a label. It is a very pleasing EP that combines varied `60`s influences with modern leanings. When McCutcheon goes with one vocal influence or another, he simply works within that style; he does not try to sound like the person. The result is very interesting. Andrew McCutcheon does all the musical performances on this disc with the exception of the drums on one track. For ordering information contact Plum Meat at plummeat@cvn.net . This review is available in book format (hardcover and paperback) in Music Street Journal: The Early Years Volume 4 at garyhillauthor.com/Music-Street-Journal-The-Early-Years .

Track by Track Review

Out of the Lion`s Mouth Very psychedelic sounds mix with a Lou Reedish vocal rap/singing style. This is quite a catchy and unique number. The instrumental break has a Doorsish texture.

Pilgrim Soul If the vocal style on the last track was Reed influenced, the dominant style to this cut is Dylan. The piece is also strong, and includes some clever lyrics. "If Jesus is king, then Jesus is Elvis, and if Elvis is king, then God please help us." Musically, the number is Dylanish, too, but in the electric mode, and the chorus is an interesting change of pace from the verses.

Palomino Truck Stop This tune has a very nice texture, and the rhythm is intriguing. A wonderful `60`s influenced organ makes frequent appearances, and the song as a whole is very well done (part `60`s, part `70`s, all `90`s).

Maraschino Cherry This number feels very much like a lost Doors track. McCutcheon pulls off a Morrison style without actually trying to sound like him. This makes the performance quite genuine and interesting.

Taste of Your Heart The intro here makes it feel like the listener has been scanning radio stations, then latches onto this track. Again, this cut is somewhat Doors influenced, but in a balladic mode. The rhythm section here is very modern, while the song structure is rooted heavily in the past. This is a beautiful and very strong composition.

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