LIke
Susan J. Paul,
Michael Tomlinson is a pop/NAC singer who was highly touted by a contemporary jazz label back in the smooth jazz genre's early days. And like SJP, he blends a pleasant, folk rock voice with optimistic lyrics, solid production and breezy melodies. His bio describes him as a troubadour, and this guitar toting cat lives up to the billing by singing honestly from the mind and heart. Comparisons to
Dan Fogelberg are in order due to his literate style and physical appearance, but he's not quite in the Top 40 vein, as Fogelberg was, just yet. Backed by perky melodies and some fine musicianship (most notably by guests
Ernie Watts and
Nancy Rumbel),
Tomlinson addresses his affinity for L.A. ("Angelenos") and the many sides of love, with the highlight being the heart rendering "I Knew You Well." His songs and singing are not earthshattering but are still soothing and sincere. A pleasant, thought provoking listen. ~ Jonathan Widran