Phases and Stages

Craig Marshall

Popular Crimes (Big Ticket) So where's the crime in being popular? Craig Marshall seems to be out to prove there isn't one. Though the longtime local singer describes this album as "alt-pop," there's very little alt and plenty of pop here, starting with the first track, "Desperately." Even without the prominent harmony vocals of Tony Scalzo, the number could pass for a Fastball tune. And so it continues; "Knock Me Down" has a sweet Burt Bacharach feel to it, and all down the line the songs continue their parade of strong pop-rock. Sure, there's a cliché or two, but love songs and such are part of the game, aren't they? Marshall's head crooner for the Lucky Strikes, and thus has no problem fronting these less-demanding songs vocally. He solidifies the effort with an assembly of fine local musicians like Ron Flynt, Darin Murphy, Jon Sanchez, and more. A fine solo debut. Officers, release this man!