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album: Veneer
artist: Jose Gonzalez
label: Hidden Agenda / 2005
score: 70
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by Tim Mathiesen
Veneer. An album that, for some, will bring them back to 1971 with the similarity to Pink Moon
by Nick Drake. Others may fit this album comfortably into their modern singer-songwriter folk collection along side
Iron & Wine and Elliott Smith. He may not be as creative or trend setting as these three, but Jose Gonzalez
has written some gorgeous music on Veneer. Though, very similar to Nick Drake's final work on Pink Moon,
Veneer is less creative, over all. The guitar is more of a foundation for the song rather than weaving in and out
of the vocals, tying everything together as one.
Veneer, however, is a gorgeous piece of work. The minimalistic arrangement is refreshing during these
days when music is often over produced to “perfection.” The sound of finger-picking on an acoustic
guitar may be the most relaxing sound to me, so when I heard Veneer for the first time, I couldn’t
help but smile and close my eyes. I opened my eyes right away, though, since I was driving.
“Heartbeats” followed by “Crosses” may be the most memorable tracks and easily the most beatiful.
They fit perfectly into modern music, yet remind me so much of Nick Drake that I am reminded of the
unbelieveable influence that Drake has had on our folk music today. The first time that I
heard Nick Drake's Pink Moon, I assumed that the album was released in the 90’s. I had
no idea until my friend told me that he was from the 60’s. It’s quite amazing that he was such an ignored
artist during his lifetime, yet, has had such an impact on today’s music.
If you miss the simplicity and quietness of Nick Drake and are tired of Iron & Wine, Veneer is the
perfect way to satisfy that empty space. This copy-cat can be forgiven. This album is more of a tribute to
the work of Nick Drake, rather than a cheap ticket to fame. It may not be a classic or ground breaking album,
but it’s a beatiful one, for sure.
SUM IT UP:
Pink Moon - originality + sweet nostalgia = Veneer
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