SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: DEE LONG – WATER IS MAGIC

DEE LONG
WATER IS MAGIC
DEE LONG MUSIC

It has been far too long since the last Dee Long album, 2011’s Life AfterLife. While there had been some singles and an EP, Long’s voice and guitar playing had been missing. But he is back with his new album Water Is Magic. Long has moved on from his prog rock days and instead has recorded a collection of beautifully produced pop rock songs, that are guaranteed to make the listener smile and reflect on some of the messages Long is conveying. It is also a remarkably positive album, with some environmental warnings, but still a very uplifting album.

Long revisits some of his older themes, that is intergalactic travel. He also delivers some very sweet love songs, and finally he looks at the environment without being preachy, in fact he celebrates the elements that keep us alive and wants the listener to join him in the celebration. The opening song, “Water Is Magic,” is a wonderful, catchy song in which he sings not only the praises of water and its importance but also the right for all to have access. Again, this is done in a gentle, loving and lovely way to direct us into understanding that this is a necessity that cannot be lost.

Musically, the album is best described as experimental pop music. Long can write incredible melodies and then throw in sounds and effects that not only keep the song interesting but also surprising. He never overdoes any effects but rather is smart and uses them sparingly to accentuate the song and its meaning. “Diamond Rain” is a great example, which features nature but some great guitar work from Long. Always a talented and tasteful guitarist, Long plays with his heart and the listener is treated to an incredible song.

Dee Long is a brilliant artist. Each album he releases is a reason to celebrate. His voice is needed more than ever, and he is missed when he is not around. Long has now released twice as many albums as he did with Klaatu and with the new album, Water Is Magic is an opportunity to celebrate his genius and appreciate his music. Water Is Magic is a stunning album, full of incredible songs that go directly to the listener’s soul.

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