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Someone just asked me; “Is Peter Frampton making a comeback?” For me, he never went away.
Call me old school because I prefer the CD, as opposed to downloading. That way I can read all the lyrics and look up which instruments are played, and by whom. It enriches my listening experience. If you have a turntable, you can also get this double album on vinyl. It’s in the grooves, baby!
Frampton explains the album title on his cool new website. Hey, if Sir Winston Churchill got your father back from World War II so you could be born, then I’d like to thank him too. A guitar legend with this talent and versatility is not born every day. He produces, writes, sings, and plays piano, organ, and ukulele. Gordon Kennedy co wrote many of the songs, as on Peter Frampton NOW.
“Vaudeville Nanna and the Banjolele” warmly reminisces about his childhood. He reflects on the memory of his grandmother and parents who have passed on. He also envisions his family and friends in the future.
Peter’s son Julian performs lead vocals on the song “Road To The Sun,” about a guy with ‘a smoking gun.’ I’ll tell ya what is smoking—the vocals and guitars! Drummer Matt Cameron (Soundgarden, Pearl Jam) contributes to the tight production. I’m hearing a single here. “I’m Due A You” is also catchy, about a bad day and the need to turn that around with the one who can do that.
“Suite Libertė” is a nice bluesy instrumental that takes its time. Frampton gives props to Hank Marvin as an influence. Listen for that dreamy Stratocaster twang.
Artistry comes with the ability to feel a range of emotions. A few of the songs are angry. “Asleep At The Wheel” is about the abduction of a teenager. “Restraint” is about greed on Wall Street.
On a happier note, the song “Invisible Man” gives the nod to Motown greats. I highly recommend you watch this jam session on the official website.
Frampton experienced extraordinary fame at a young age in the ‘70s for making his guitar talk using a device called the ‘TalkBox’ that works by moving the guitar sound through the mouth. That method is not used on this album. “It rattles the teeth,” he said in a recent interview.
The North American tour starts this May and runs until August, with the band YES at some venues. Frampton and his band are exceptional live and will be enjoyed by all in attendance.
