Former Best Kisser In The World Gerald Collier displays his wondrous aptitude for dark, acoustic-oriented pop songwriting on this solo debut, joining the ranks of expressive Pacific Northwest frontmen who also have made solo albums in an effort to cleanse their souls. Like Heatmiser’s Elliott Smith and Mark Lanegan of Screaming Trees, Collier intentionally steps away from his heavier efforts with a band to create a sound that’s far more personal and discreet.
The emotional tenor of this record was foreshadowed long ago by a single tune on the Best Kissers’ first EP. That little ditty, “Hungover Together”, was a drunken C&W duet featuring Collier locked in romantic lament with the lovely Carrie Akre, presently of Goodness fame. On his new record, Collier continues to engage in an infernal struggle with alcohol, regret and salvation. Songs such as “Boozin’ Time” and “Bender (I’m On One)” poetically illustrate his ongoing battle between substance and self. On “To Break The Ice”, Collier sings in bittersweet desperation, “I talk to myself like I like me and blame myself after awhile/To break the ice, I would do anything.”
Fellow Kisser Jeff Stone provides exquisite production assistance, matching Collier’s mournful insights with an instrumentation that is sparse and almost fragile. Collier’s vocals and guitar are occasionally highlighted by Marc Olsen (formerly of Sage) on pedal steel and Anne Marie Ruljancich’s violin and harmony vocals. Collier’s delivery is unusually mature, infusing his music with a subtlety and a moody depth. His pop-constructivist songcraft allows for some particularly heartfelt performances.
