Reviewed by Anthony Longville

The front sleeve credit goes to 33:3 but this is actually Mississippi songwriter Charlie Fowler. "Hi, I'm Charlie and I'm an alcoholic" are the first spoken words which set the scene for this collection of half a dozen of Charlie's songs. Perhaps not surprisingly what Charlie has produced here is a melancholy set. In "I Wish I Could Talk With You Again" Fowler sings of a longing to be reunited with his departed father but refers to his father's regret at putting the first "cold one" in his son's hand. The final song, "Oh! What A Silent Night" reflects on Christmas spent separated from his sons, evidently a further outcome of his alcoholism. It's all very sad in tone, but there is some light as he sings of his reliance on God. Overall though this is not an easy listen. The main reason for this may not be the subject matter, but the fact that the artist has a very weak, droning, tuneless singing voice. The experiences of life are real, but the voice and the low budget production will not strike a chord with many listeners.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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