Here’s how I tell if a music CD is any good. I pop it in the computer and listen to it as background music while I work. If I like a song, I’ll play it over. If the tunes leave me with a good feeling, I’ll play the whole album over. If some of the chords stick in my head, I know I’ve got a keeper. That’s what happened when I played “Cold Harbor,” a CD recently recorded by a local Richmond band, Schnitzel.
I’ve revolted against the least-common-denominator music packaged and hyped by the big record labels. I’m a big believer in supporting local artists, many of whom are just as talented as the musicians who get national air time. Once upon a time, you had to be young, hang out at nightclubs and stay up late to hear the local bands. Nowadays, you can find them online and order their CDs, many of which have remarkably good production values.
I have no idea whether Jim O’Brien, the band’s lead vocalist, guitarist and writer of most of its songs, has a shot of breaking into the big time. All I know is that I enjoyed listening to his lyrics, which are rooted in the Richmond area, and his clean, simple melodies, which linger in the memory. Schnitzel’s music wanders somewhere between rock and folk. If you’re looking for a fresh, easy-listening sound, then try Schnitzel. If you’re over 40, trust me, you’ll enjoy it more than 95 percent of what you hear on the radio.
Check out Schnitzel’s audio clips at CDBaby. If you have time for only one clip, I’d recommend “Truck Bedliner” or “Caroline.” (click link to play).