What Are You Listening To?

[Ruby]

MARK OBLINGER - High Water Line



This is his debut album, released mid 2019. When I read 'debut' and heard his voice before seeing any pics, the immediate impression was of a much younger man but that said, as things progressed, it became evident that this could only be the work of someone with many years of experience tucked firmly under his belt. It's a lovely, accomplished offering. Well written songs, great production (which is hardly surprising since he's been winning production Grammy Awards for some decades now) and a clean high tenor which belies his years.

My associations were with Graham Nash, Paul Simon, Marc Cohn - that ilk of artist. Went and looked him up and it turns out he's worked as a touring band member of Pure Prairie League as well as with Garth Brooks, Amy Grant, John Oates, Richie Furay and others - he also toured with Firefall for seven years. One of those musicians who put his family first as opposed to the demands of the spotlight and who now, with the benefit of hindsight, and dues well and truly paid, has made a sincere and classy album.

It's not pop and not rock and it's the kind of music I like only when it's done well, i.e. has not descended into too much schmaltz, which it hasn't, IMHO. Always a fine line. 

Some live clips - 

"No Regrets" ... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h7o3jhMLsHc

"Love Is" ... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X89h2_pDAKQ

"Pressure Makes Diamonds" ... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vbE9XS0ZWIU

The title track ...