DANNY BRILL


"Better Late Than Never" (Danny Brill; 2008)

Reviewed by Christopher J. Kelter

Danny Brill has literally been out of the recording industry for a couple of decades. Brill was part of a few progressive rock outfits in the 70s before turning his attention to business and instructional activities.  “Better Late Than Never” is the culmination of about four years worth of writing effort and the subsequent recording.

“Better Late Than Never” is a largely mellow affair that keeps keyboard-driven progressive rock near and dear to its heart. “Better Late than Never” plays like a theatrical production without a discernible storyline as different vocalists and instrumentalists add to Danny Brill’s expansive musical output. Fans of early Genesis and Gentle Giant will find a lot to like with Brill’s debut.

What’s impressive about this effort is that Brill was able to gather a stellar cast of musicians and contributors – this shows that Brill was never far from the genre’s movers and shakers. The combination of Brill’s songwriting and the great performances makes for a solid album. Add the fact that “Better Late Than Never” is an independent release and you’ve got an unadulterated achievement.

“Better Late Than Never” was produced by Michael Sciotto and Danny Brill.

Danny Brill is joined by Michael Sciotto on drums, percussion, vocals, and spoken word; Nick Moroch on guitars and mandolin; David Keyes on bass; Tony Levin on bass, Chapman stick, and Steinberger bass cello; Laura Dreyer on flute and saxophone, Ian Lloyd on lead vocals; Elza Mueller on vocals; Rick Obermann on vocals; Roman Lankios on xylophone; Roger Lipson on shenai and tabla; Tommy Lafferty on sitara; Jessie Brill on cello, spoken word, and screams; and Keith Brill on spoken word and screams.

For more information visit http://www.dannybrill.com.


Rating Guide:

A classic. This record will kick your ass.

Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.

So-so. You've heard better.

Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.

Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.


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Copyright © 2009 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights reserved.
Revised: 19 Mar 2024 18:22:13 -0500.