"Dog Days" by David Ullman
Review of the Cleveland Based Singer/Songwriter's Debut Album
The term “dog days” never implies good things. Usually it brings to mind the unforgivably hot afternoons of late summer—the merciless flies, the humidity, the food gone bad, and the perseverance of brown grass, despite the fanatical attentions of persnickety homeowners. But David Ullman’s Dog Days just might make those seemingly-forsaken weeks a little easier to bear. Intelligently emotional and unabashedly candid, the debut release from the scruffy singer/songwriter is leaving fresh marks in the world of underground folk.
Overview
Dog Days is a gracefully raw confession of the heart. Ullman’s slightly gravelly vocals, which crescendo from the barest whisper to a barely-controlled roar, lend the album an air of sincerity that is enhanced by the limited yet effective instrumentation. Relying primarily on voice and guitar can be a risk to take when it comes to a debut album—even when said artist routinely flies solo and only armed with a guitar-- but one would hardly expect less than greatness from the Cleveland-based performer. The shadows of piano, electric guitar, and percussion accompaniment only serve to enhance what Ullman has perfected on his own. Ullman is a true romantic who wears his heart on his sleeve without being annoyingly cliché.
Go-To Tracks
“Déjà Vu”, one of Ullman’s most popular songs, brings up old memories of long-ago loves who appear out of nowhere and leave just as abruptly. Its simplistic guitar rhythm and subtle piano arrangement make it easily a tune that will stick like honey to the brain for countless days. The first song on the album, “Begin”, is strategically placed; with an upbeat outlook and driving acoustic work, it leaves even the most skeptical of listeners wanting more. A bit darker than the rest, “In Dreams” is brooding and addictive, with electric guitar accents to emphasize its beautiful decadence. “Halflight” magnificently exploits Ullman’s range and utilizes that signature “roar”, combining it with prominent percussion that will make this track a sure hit.
Last Thoughts
Ullman’s most valuable asset is his ability to relate to his audience. Every person who has ever attempted anything resembling a relationship can relate to the extreme highs, the obliterating lows, and the hazy feelings in between that Ullman hits in his songs. Not just an album for lovers, not just an album for the broken-hearted, it is an album that transcends multiple classifications and stereotypes, and is simply a good idea for anyone, anywhere.
David Ullman on Myspace
