With the release of
Guest Host, the Negro Problem's
Stew steps into the solo spotlight and delivers a sunny pop masterpiece. Influenced by Jimmy Webb and the lighter side of
Arthur Lee and
Love, the overall sound of
Guest Host harkens back to the classic pop sound of the late '60s, but it is slightly subverted due to
Stew's incisive lyrics.
Stew has the eye of a keen observer and couches his perceptions in melodies so strong, you'd swear you've heard them before. Also present in the lyrics are a wicked sense of rhyme and wordplay, as well as a strong sense of humor. The arrangements on
Guest Host are stellar, as well: from the bouncy bass and great tambourine and organ chorus of "She's Really Daddy Feelgood" to the beautiful string arrangement on "Ordinary Love." Another standout track is "Rehab," a darkly humorous tune describing a woman's optimism following rehab. The pretty acoustic guitar and bass arrangement makes a subtle shift to a minor key: "When she got out of rehab for the 22nd time." "Man in a Dress" has a musical setting that could have come straight out of the '20s, replete with the sound of a scratchy old 78 and fabulous backing vocals. In fact, the backing vocals on the entire album deserve a mention of their own, delivering exactly what's needed on each track and giving the arrangements that extra something. Step into
Stew's world with
Guest Host, and stay awhile. You won't regret it. ~ Sean Westergaard