Welcome to My Century is Bob Hillman's second collection of literate, melodic songs. Above all, he tries to say something interesting about the way we live now. For example, the works of Tolstoy provide the backdrop fo... more »r a song about a romantic evening in New York City ("Tolstoy"), and geographical and political facts about Greenland inform the story of the disintegration of a relationship ("Greenland"). In "Bolted Down," he turns an absurdist's eye on the neuroses of city dwellers. WTMC was produced by Tommy West in his barn/studio, Somewhere in New Jersey, and features some of New York City's finest musicians.« less
Welcome to My Century is Bob Hillman's second collection of literate, melodic songs. Above all, he tries to say something interesting about the way we live now. For example, the works of Tolstoy provide the backdrop for a song about a romantic evening in New York City ("Tolstoy"), and geographical and political facts about Greenland inform the story of the disintegration of a relationship ("Greenland"). In "Bolted Down," he turns an absurdist's eye on the neuroses of city dwellers. WTMC was produced by Tommy West in his barn/studio, Somewhere in New Jersey, and features some of New York City's finest musicians.
CD Reviews
Why isn't this guy famous?
Matthew Taylor | Rockville, MD USA | 12/22/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"When I saw Bob Hillman open for Suzanne Vega, he was just another opening act. I bought this CD that night, and now his songs have become part of my life. With the lyrical flair of Sting mixed with power-pop arrangements that remind me of the Gin Blossoms or the Wallflowers, Hillman's music has what it takes to make it. While most of the songs deal with your typical pop song topics - love, loss - he tweaks them in unique ways. You've got respect a song writer who compares his lover's coldness with ice caps of Greenland or who explains an unexpected love encounter as if it were a plot in a Tolstoy novel. 'Games,' 'Anywhere', and the title track are all strong pieces. This guy should be famous. Why isn't he?"
Bob hillman: round two
pstagani | pittsburgh | 12/14/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"bob hillman returns with welcome to my century. this is bob's second effort and it rocks. bolted down brings down the house every time he plays it live. and ask him how he came up with the lyrics for greenland. his answer is why he is a great songwriter. he is clever, synical, sarcastic, sincere, honest. hillman is a true musical artist who doesn't sacrifice his attitude or belief for the big time. although given the chance, he may think about it."
Tolstoy Would Approve
pstagani | 06/08/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Bob Hillman's "Welcome To My Century" reminds us that not much has changed from one generation to the next, Tolstoy's themes hold:
"Like epic poetry, old folk songs
Gargantuan themes, impossibly long
War and peace and right and wrong." But you don't have to read Russian novels to recognize a great writer when you hear one. That Hillman writes songs gives the genre a much appreciated and welcomed taste of genius. He writes of ordinary fears (going bald) and self consciousness (asking a movie star for and autograph). He writes about addictions and rock & roll stars (wanna be's & has beens), a girl from Iowa, an alcoholic dad.Ordinary themes, heart breakingly strong. Musically, it all fits, from his smoky rugged voice to the haunting acoustic guitar strings. I love this album; have played it over & over again; one of those perfect soundtracks that resonate with where I currently find myself. Don't miss Bob Hillman! If you do, "too bad for you"!"
Bob Hillman is excellent! Smart, Funny and Great listening.
afellowtraveler | Silver Spring, Maryland USA | 05/02/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I highly recommend "Welcome To My Century". Mr. Hillman is part of the New York folk scene that includes such artists as Jack Hardy and Suzanne Vega. While he has not gotten as much press as his peers, his music is great. What sets his music style apart from his serious pop/folk peers today is his use of both large doses of humor and charming self-deprecation in his songs. This low-key attitude is especially endearing when compared to his "movie star" looks. In a song such as "Greenland", you will find him traveling to the icy North in this humorous tune that spins several factoids about the country while slyly commenting on a failed relationship. Download the song for yourself and see. On the opposite end of the spectrum is his critique of "Las Vegas" which laments the artificial nature of casinos and comments on the odd cast of characters you might find there. What you will find in all of his songs is an intelligent point of view combined with a kick[ing] melody. He is really fun to listen to -if you have a stressful commute you must consider playing his music as a welcome stress-buster! Do yourself a favor and buy this album. If you enjoy it as much as I did, check out his first effort: "Playing God"."
Track Listings (13) - Disc #1
