When I Cross the River

Tom Bolton's album, When I Cross the River, just sort of . . . plays. It's not remarkable in any way, and Bolton is no more talented than any other singer. His acoustic ballads are all very similar to one another, and he doesn't even seem terribly passionate about singing them. There are flashes of acoustic REM throughout this CD, but no memorable tunes rise up. In fact, most of this CD is just Bolton talking while he happens to be singing lightly, and strumming a guitar. His conceptions and shrouded memories are on display for all to see, which should be more than enough, but mostly it just doesn't come off that great. "Hey You, Yeah You" is the highlight of the CD. This song kicks things up a notch and even puts Bolton's wit on display. "Hold the Sun" is nice too, as the rising and falling emphasis puts more emotion into Bolton's piece of art. There is also a distinct Pete Yorn feel to these two songs. "Where You Wanna Go" has some lovely moments, though is overpowered by a mellow sense of neutrality toward the end product. The greatest shame of this CD is that it didn't display Bolton's talent more. When he does show his true talent, however, Bolton is quite good. When Bolton releases a CD which he is passionate about and lets it all out, I'll be in line to buy it.