Glen Phillips, both former and current lead singer of toad the wet sprocket, just has one of those voices. Much like Matthew Sweet or Michael Penn, Phillips could sing the phone book and it would be worth listening to. Under that Dave Foley meets Pat Sajak exterior lurks an agile mind that expresses itself in lyrics about rape, depression, growing up in a small town, and childhood memories.
If you liked toad the wet sprocket, there is a lot here for you. Largo contains an awesome version of "Dam Would Break," as well as toad standards "Something to Say" and the unparalleled "Whatever I Fear," probably the best cut on the entire CD.
On the other hand, if you have not checked out Phillips' solo material, you owe it to yourself to do so. The standout here is "Fred Meyers," a tale of growing up in a small town. "Drive By," a song about a family dog, has a surprise ending as its speaker bargains with God. Other highlights are "Train Wreck" and a song about personal recovery called "Back on My Feet."
The reunited toad the wet sprocket is currently on tour, and should not be missed. One of the songs they are performing is also on Largo, an eerily prescient cover of the Randy Newman chestnut "Political Science."
Given the influence that toad had on Caedmon's Call, Nickel Creek, Jars of Clay, Sister Hazel, and Vertical Horizon, it is amazing that this album slipped under the radar of national attention. Live at Largo captures one of the best voices, and best songwriters, of the last twenty years.
4.5 tocks
Similar sounding releases
2004Martyn JosephRun to Cover
2002Randy StonehillEdge of The World
2001Peter & Valerie OlivaHistory
2005Tyrone WellsClose: Live at McClain's
2000Jason HarrodLiving in Skin
2000Richard ShindellSomewhere Near Paterson
