/ 2012 Self / 10 Tracks / http://www.garyleewingard.com
Seems To Be Raining is a complex and dense track that soars on the interaction between instrumental and vocal sides. There are hints of rock, country, and even John Denver-esque pop that is present during this track. Wingard is able to establish a very contemporary type of sound that is imbued with a wide array of influences and styles. I Really Love You contains the emotional intensity that is needed to capture and keep listeners interested throughout the disc.
I feel that the very deliberate guitar work on I Really Love You sets it off from similar efforts, and showcases that Wingard needs nothing else than a guitar and his vocals to shine. Never Land is a track that is distinct from the rest of the album, and I feel that it’s location on Once There Was A Man is inspired. This track has a more pointed and rock-based feel to it, providing a boost to the album’s momentum. Wingard is able to keep listeners guessing even into these late registers, and I feel that Never Land’s inclusion (and sizzling guitar solo) showcases his skill.
The Road Ahead represents a comparable addition to Wingard’s palette, as the presence of a harmonica at the beginning of the track brings listeners to a smoky blues hall. Few albums are able to stand as full works, but Once There Was A Man is a rare example of hitting on all cylinders with each subsequent effort. Check out Wingard’s website and see exactly when he hits up a venue around you. I hope that he is able to continue expanding and evolving his inimitable style.
Top Tracks: Once There Was A Man, The Road Ahead, When I Come Home
Rating: 8.4/10
John Sargeant, writing on NeuFutur as Sargeant, is the founder and editor-in-chief of NeuFutur Magazine, where he has covered independent music, PC hardware, consumer tech, and gaming culture since 1998. With over 25 years of continuous digital publishing experience, he has written thousands of hands-on game and record reviews, conducted in-depth hardware field testing, and analyzed digital media monetization trends. His work prioritizes first-hand evaluation and long-term product testing.
Beats: Independent Music, PC Gaming & Peripherals, Consumer Tech, Webmaster Tools
Testing & Ethics: All hardware, software, and media reviews are conducted through hands-on evaluation in accordance with NeuFutur’s editorial independence standards; sponsored consideration is strictly excluded from editorial ratings.
Contact: editor@neufutur.com