GABE DIXON BAND > Gabe Dixon Band

For aspiring artists wondering how to make a killer first impression, Gabe Dixon Band’s self-titled debut should serve as the model. The piano-pop driven fare, rooted in folk and classic rock, is filled with universally appealing, astute lyrics (“Further The Sky”) and robust grooves (“Find My Way”). This timeless collection is a natural fit for fans who love vintage Jackson Browne and Elton John, and it bridges the gap for those seeking a contemporary match in musicianship.Label: FANTASY
[Rating: 4]

For aspiring artists wondering how to make a killer first impression, Gabe Dixon Band’s self-titled debut should serve as the model. The piano-pop driven fare, rooted in folk and classic rock, is filled with universally appealing, astute lyrics (“Further The Sky”) and robust grooves (“Find My Way”). This timeless collection is a natural fit for fans who love vintage Jackson Browne and Elton John, and it bridges the gap for those seeking a contemporary match in musicianship. Dixon, armed with dexterity and restraint on the keys, is equally gifted with an array of range and expression in his vocals. To call this disc a “debut” however, is a bit of a mislabeling. A peek at GDB’s history reveals the key piece behind such artistic excellence: artist development (and its sorely missed these days in the music industry). Dixon bandmates bassist Winston Harrison and drummer Jano Rix have been playing together for nine years. If the band breaks as an “overnight sensation,” which it should, it’s because the guys have done their homework, emphasis on “work.” Producer Neal Cappellino (Alison Krauss, Jonny Lang) as well as hit songwriters Tia Sillers and Dan Wilson, aided in crafting a disc that’s sonically sublime and pulsing with soul, whimsy and wit.