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Sam Sherwin Left In Review by Gary Hill I previously reviewed another set from Sam Sherwin. Like that one, this is sort of a mainstream singer-songwriter rock release. Don't expect anything Earth shattering in terms of creativity. However, if you like good mainstream rock from acts like Tom Petty and Bruce Springsteen, you'll enjoy the four songs on this EP. This review is available in book (paperback and hardcover) form in Music Street Journal: 2021 Volume 2. More information and purchase links can be found at: garyhillauthor.com/Music-Street-Journal-2021.

Track by Track Review

Can't Depend On You An electric guitar arrangement brings this into being. It drops to a more balladic, acoustic based sound from there. The works forward with a mainstream rock approach that has some cool hooks as it continues. The tune lands somewhere in the shared territory between acts like Eddie Money and Bruce Springsteen. The female backing vocals (Janet LaBelle) bring something special to the piece.

Johnny Got Soul There is a bit of a bluesy grind to this cut. It's another that makes me think of Springsteen a bit. This is a killer rock and roller. The organ brings some charms. As strong as the opener was, I think I like this one even more. There are some killer guitar fills further down the musical road, and the closing shift instrumental movement brings a sense of retro cool.

Losing My Faith Piano and vocals are the only elements at play as this balladic cut starts. The arrangement fills out a bit after the first verse. It gets more rocking, but still remains more or less balladic as it continues. I like the organ on this tune, too. This one makes me think even more of Springsteen. It does get pretty powerful before it's all over.

The Wells Run Dry This is much more of a soulful blues rocker. It works pretty well. It has some hints of a punky indie vibe. It's driving tune that's a lot of fun. This powerhouse makes for an effective closer.

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