Todd Potter Reviewed

Todd Potter

The Bell (White Wing)

Whatever you were expecting from Todd Potter, The Bell will be a surprise. He's hardly been fallow since departing Bubble Puppy in the early Seventies, not with notable stints accompanying Rusty Wier and recording with Puppy littermate Rod Prince in Sirius in the late Seventies. Yet it's been some time since the guitarist ventured on his own, and fans will find the wait worthwhile. Opener "Last Time" sets the album's tone as a collection of 12 original folk- and country-rock tracks. There's little evidence of the flash and fire Potter conjured in Bubble Puppy, but instrumentals such as "Indian Theme" and the Traffic-like "Findings" demonstrate an unexpected sophistication. Songs such as "The Creed" further showcase his stylistic proficiency, this time with classical flourishes. The title track rings its author's socially responsible side, as does "Clear Channel Night," with its Springsteen-like ode to the darkness. Potter's heart speaks throughout the album, amid songs of love lost and found, and the ever-beckoning horizon. Lyrically, The Bell is self-consciously reflective, but Potter is a player, and that's his strong suit: flowing, elegant guitar work. When all's said and done, The Bell isn't the loudest noise out there, but it rings true and clear.