Ariel Posen - Reasons Why (Redux) (2024) [Official Digital Download]

This is Ariel Posen’s 3rd set with "Reasons Why" produced by Murray Pulver (bgv) with Ariel (vocals/guitar/piano/synths). Recorded in Canada with a warm production approach there are plenty of idealistic passes in his music (“Learning How To Say Goodbye”). The vocals & music are well-applied. He even sounds loosely modeled after Jakob Dylan vocally in some tunes which makes it engaging.

Recorded in Winnipeg, Manitoba and Montreal, Quebec in early 2022, Reasons Why encompasses "reflection and growth" for Posen. The title refers to "the explanation behind how and why we act, and how choices can further affect oneself and others."

The album has 10 reasons why each tune could be striking. There are many responsive chords here that have vitality & are provocative. Ariel has the musicianship & skills with many of his melodies displaying a tight grip on performance formality. However, perhaps he’s following a David Gray, Dave Matthews path but there isn’t even enough jazzy improvisation in these songs to make them challenging.

Like “So Easy,” is ambitious. Ariel then starts track 7 “Broken But I’m Fine,” with a hefty splash of beats & gnarly guitar & this is cruising on a cool track. Mr. Posen is in the more distinguished arena of singer/songwriter Marc Cohn (“Walking In Memphis”) with his excellent vocal accentuation. Ariel’s warm voice while not being wholly blues-based does have lift, urgency & it’s impulsive under those razor-sharp guitar notes. The song title alone confirms the man has written something different. And that’s essentially my point.

There’s nothing wrong with Ariel Posen’s artistry. Many songs are put over convincingly. However, while there are some Danishes in the house of onions it’s the presentation that is often creative throughout & Posen’s expressive guitar leads worth the price of admission. Just needs a little more uniqueness.

TRACKLIST

1. Ariel Posen - Time Can Only Tell (Redux)
2. Ariel Posen - I Wish That We Never Met (Redux)
3. Ariel Posen - Feel This Way Too (Redux)
4. Ariel Posen - Learning How To Say Goodbye (Redux)
5. Ariel Posen - So Easy (Redux)
6. Ariel Posen - Broken But I'm Fine (Redux)
7. Ariel Posen - Didn't Say (Redux)
8. Ariel Posen - Man You Raised (Redux)
9. Ariel Posen - Choose (Redux)
10. Ariel Posen - Always Moving On (Redux)
11. Ariel Posen - Broken But I'm Fine (OG Version)
12. Ariel Posen - I Wish That We Never Met (Demo)



Thanks to the Original customer.