With Watching Time Run Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania singer-songwriter Steve Moakler dodges any semblance of a sophomore slump by opening strong on “Waiting,” a triumphantly uplifting song that flirts with Britpop’s shimmering guitars and anthemic choruses. Moakler’s breathy voice recalls a young Josh Rouse at times, especially in the verses of the following tune “Today” where he sings a matured sentiment over more roots-y instruments like banjo and piano. A grinding old Hammond B-3 organ is added in on “Best Thing,” a track where those old classic tones are nicely contrasted with an infectiously danceable beat. Fans of this tune’s noticeable groove are sure to also like “Can’t Stop Thinking About You” — a bouncy ditty that recalls some of Paul Simon’s groovier solo moments in the early ‘70s. “Why We Said Goodbye” is a standout cut wherein Moakler nicely contrasts lonely lyrics with spirited, elevating melodies. He toes the Nashville line on “Play You Down,” a catchy and twangy song that could easily crossover onto the Country charts.
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- Blake Stratton
- Andrew Ripp
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- Alexis Harte
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- The Duhks