The term “orchestra” may be a odd term for this trio called Brian Lee and His Orchestra. Yet Mr. Lee and his cohorts definitely need a listen if you like well-crafted songs in the modern singer/songwriter tradition. Their two self titled albums marked as volumes I and II are exceptional efforts of songwriting and intimate storytelling. Lee’s voice is a little on the country side of Neil Young but his feet are planted firmly in Americana. Volume I starts with an acoustic tune titled “Just Got Off a Train” but soon you will get their not insubstantial rockabilly and gospel roots in “The Other Side”. This is a rocking delight from the first note. All seven tracks on this 27 minute EP are well recorded and sung with an authentic feeling.

Volume II appears to be searching for a more mainstream sound. This is both a strength and a weakness. It is good because Mr. Lee has a strong creative side that benefits from these more pop oriented efforts. Yet I miss the soft mellow sound of the first album. I hear more McCartney than Young in these songs. However there are some very strong tracks here including “Do You Get Crazy” , the ukulele propelled “Over The Hill” and the primetime ready “Waiting”. Brian Lee and his Orchestra has a fresh accessible sound that is “Waiting” to be discovered.

Both albums can be found at the artists web site in 256kbps MP3.

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