I have to preface this review by sharing that, as stated in the liner notes on Malcom Holcombe's latest album, Gamblin' House, "This album is dedicated to the victims of incompetent leadership."
Although the social commentary in Holcombe's songs aren't as explicit as that of, say, Sheryl Crow's forthcoming Detours, that dedication and the prominence of the Eye of Providence in the cover art speak volumes. I didn't catch the protesty nature of the album until after I'd read that dedication and listened to it again. Regardless of whether it is intended as an album of protest music, or not, it's a fantastic disc.
Read any review about Malcom Holcombe's music, and you're sure to hear something about rugged, gritty vocals and old soul imagery. I wish I could tell you something other than that, but honestly, that's the best thing about Holcombe's work. His songs are the artistic equivalent of ripping off a bandaid: they kind of sting, but you know jumping into it fully is the best way to heal.
Full Review: Malcom Holcombe - Gamblin House
Comments
The Grammy’s are just indutry backslapping and not representative of real quality world music at all.