| The new album from James Rutledge; aka Pedro, has taken 4 years to arrive following his debut EP for the Melodic label in 1999. The opening "Intro" commands an almost instant respect, with its introspective piano melodies weaving around each other. Following this is the exceptional "Fear & Resilience," incorporating high brow electronica, via the use of brass horns and a superb bristling beat, deliciously intertwined with the strumming of an acoustic guitar. The closing drum programming on this track makes for a splendid finale. "Dead Grass" swiftly follows, its melancholy piano opening blossoming into a clocked beat, heartbreaking synth tones and homesick samples. From what already appears to be a deeply personal album, the remainder of Pedro becomes even more introspective and abstract, not necessarily a bad thing, but it does slightly detract from its wonderful opening. On "123," the ruffled drum loops return to provide a fascinatingly skewed backdrop to Rutledge’s raw, jazzy accompaniments. There are so many ideas floating around here, it’s hard to take it all in. What I like about Pedro is that he does not discard melody in favour of adopting a more pretentious route, which he could easily show off with such undeniable talent. Not everything on Pedro comes off, but this is undoubtedly one of the bravest and honest debut albums I have heard for many a year. Rutledge is hugely talented and the Melodic label have done well to unearth him and should be congratulated for finding him and giving him the platform to express his visceral vision. I suggest you share what he has to offer. - Barcode |
![MH-240 Pedro - Pedro [2006 Edition]](/album_art_front/MH240_F.jpg)
1XLP/Out Of Print