As with his first solo release, Jason Falkner plays every instrument on Can You Still Feel?. The difference between this release and his last is Nigel Godrich, the much sought after producer of Radiohead’s Ok Computer.
The album begins with “The Invitation”, an introduction that illustrates Falkner’s sense of humor. Next is the wonderful orchestration of “Author Unknown”. The layered chorus teases you as it builds on itself and repeatedly pulls you back into the verses until finally exploding. The coda will have your head swimming until the final notes set you peacefully on land.
The wonderment that Faulkner expresses in “Reverence” will leave you to contemplate the miracle of life. “I see beauty that goes beyond you and me/ And it goes on, on and on long after I am gone/ So why am I down when there is life all around?/ Don’t make a sound, can’t you hear life all around?”
“Holiday” is reminiscient of the naivete of pop music in the ’60’s. No matter the content, the song is unforgettable. The reoccurring “ooh” is contagious. “Eloquence” has a particular vocal flow and sound that can only be appreciated through a good set of headphones while “Honey” continues along the bouncy pop course that dominates the album. The sound throughout the album is fresh. Falkner has a knack for reinventing himself over and over again.
In “I Already Know”, Falkner sounds much like the Sting of old. This song is comparable to any of The Police’s brilliant hits, but a ripping guitar interrupts the beauty mid-riff. The sound is as irritating as it is annoyingly misplaced. Perhaps irony was the motive, but that is no matter because the choice seems to be misguided.
The instrumentation in “See You Again” showcases the Nigel Godrich mark of excellence, but the beautiful vocals are completely overshadowed by the background ornamentation.
“The Plan” is a delectable treat. The verses dance right into a chorus that is no masquerade. “Goodnight Sweet Night” wraps up this emotion-evoking masterpiece. I don’t think that words alone can explain this lullaby. It can only speak for itself.
Jason Falkner has the gift of melody. His amazing musicianship is second only to his lavish choruses that dance around in your head for days. Can You Still Feel? Yes, I can.
+ charlie craine
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