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Page McConnell
Page Mcconnell
Page McConnell
Genres: Jazz, Pop, Rock
 
  •  Track Listings (9) - Disc #1

Although Page McConnell didn't write many songs during his nearly 20-year tenure with Phish, his first solo album showcases nine Page-penned, unflinchingly personal tunes that document his post-Phish struggles and recent d...  more »

     
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CD Details

All Artists: Page Mcconnell
Title: Page McConnell
Members Wishing: 1
Total Copies: 0
Label: Sony Legacy
Original Release Date: 1/1/2007
Re-Release Date: 4/17/2007
Genres: Jazz, Pop, Rock
Styles: Jam Bands, Rock Jam Bands
Number of Discs: 1
SwapaCD Credits: 1
UPC: 886970683722

Synopsis

Amazon.com
Although Page McConnell didn't write many songs during his nearly 20-year tenure with Phish, his first solo album showcases nine Page-penned, unflinchingly personal tunes that document his post-Phish struggles and recent divorce. It's a toss-up which event was more painful, but it's his efforts to fashion a new paradigm for both his music and his love life that provide this disc with its dramatic tension and disarming fragility. While "Runaway Bride," and "Beauty of a Broken Heart" are like scars that still fester, "Maid Marian," a romantic "note to self" about what to avoid next time love comes calling, seems to reveal more about McConnell's state of mind, and is stronger because of it. A much funkier album than his two Vida Blue efforts, with more sophisticated vocals, McConnell no longer seems so determined to distance himself from his high profile past. He not only invites former band mates Trey Anastasio, Mike Gordon, and Jon Fishman to guest, he allows himself the freedom jam as in days of yore. Having said that, these jams are more reminiscent of the Allman Brothers Band's anxious jazz interludes than the mind-altering science experiments that Phish was known for. --Jaan Uhelszki

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CD Reviews

Enjoyable
The Delite Rancher | Phoenix, Arizona | 04/20/2007
(3 out of 5 stars)

"Page McConnell's new album is what you'd expect. The song writing is mediocre while the improvisation is strong. Most songs sound like they could have been penned during the Vida Blue era or the last five years of Phish. In other words, there is no 'Cars Trucks Buses' or even a 'Most Events Aren't Planned.' The album follows McConnell's usual style of rock with flavors of funk and psychedelia. The use of electronic drum beats may be the unexpected dynamic. The issue with "Page McConnell" is that it is a solo album by a great accompanying musician. There's nothing wrong with the disc, it's simply that there are no significant stand-outs. "Page McConnell" is an enjoyable listen that probably won't get heavy rotation."
Enjoyable
RP | Seattle | 05/20/2007
(4 out of 5 stars)

"This CD showcases Page's talent, creativity and musicianship in a way that reminds me why I loved listening to him play in Phish so much.



The songs are tight while still conveying an improvisational, jammy feel that works well. Page's piano playing is the highlight for me. On some tracks, he adds synthesizer and other fun instruments (including "toy piano") for cool, sound-enhancing effects. The lyrics are decent enough: heartfelt without being (overly) cheesy. The instrumental, improvisational reunion jam, "Back in the Basement", is a great mid-album highlight.



Despite a solid effort, there are a few weak tracks here. The album fades towards the end and I get slightly tired of Page's voice for a full album (perhaps a duet or two would have been nice).



Overall, this is a worthwhile buy and a nice branch-out addition to my CD collection."
A good attempt as a solo artist
M. VANETTEN | Spring Lake, New Jersey | 04/18/2007
(4 out of 5 stars)

"I personally enjoy this album a lot. But do not listen to this album hoping to hear a authentic phish sound because you won't. It's a very "Page" sounding album. But as anyone who is probably buying this album knows, music by an artist like Page McConnell can't be appreciated at less in the live format. I personally own SIRIUS radio and caught his live performances on air. I am really psyched to catch him this summer. The highlight on the album for me is "Heavy Rotation". I recommend giving it a listen, it's worth it."