A Revelation
John Diller | Wilton Manors, FL United States | 03/01/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Wes's music almost defies description. Certainly it comes with a strong pop sensibility. The album is peppered with musical statements that are throwbacks to bubble gum pop from the late sixties and seventies--think Bee Gees or ELO.. But there is an alternative side that utilizes acoustic guitar and electronic effects that would make Beck proud. I am sorry I cannot be clearer I am not a Rolling Stone critic with an exhaustive supply of arcane musical comparisons on hand. What really sets Wes apart though is his lyrics and his voice. His music, for lack of a better description, is sweet and his voice, a soothing, relaxed tenor, winds its way into your head like a velvet snake. This album is somewhat like an anti-Beck album. Beck's last, Sea Change, was an ode to a downtrodden lover. pollyanna could not be more different, despite sharing some aural complements. This album is like one long love letter, broken into 11 unique paragraphs. The whole production is relaxed and warm and sweet."
Another great cd
Kevin Collins | Alameda, CA United States | 03/16/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"After randomly discovering Cunningham's '12 Ways' last year (see my Amazon[.com] review), I was happy to see this one released. It's a bit mellower that '12 Ways' but the songwriting is more mature. For those who haven't heard him, here are the usual artist comparisons: Some of it has a similar vibe to Travis and others (like 'Only You Know' and 'Good Good Feeling' are very Beatle-y. I hear some Crowded House in here, and the hidden track following 'Glory' sounds almost like he is channeling some of Freddie Mercury's spirit. The song will blow you away. Get this CD, you will be very happy you did."
Totally Killer!
Matthew T Collier | Starkville, MS United States | 12/17/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Ever since I heard Wes's fantastic "12 Ways to Win People to Your Way of Thinking," I've been waiting for his follow-up cd. "Pollyanna" delivers. Its completely amazing, and while it is a little more laid back than his last album, it still surprises me. Wes Cunningham always seems to differentiate his songs stylistically, and that is one of my favorite things about him. He has awesome harmonies and chord arrangements. Its innovative and yet classic at the same time. I HIGHLY recommend this cd to anyone who enjoys good tunes. Buy it!"