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Sam Shaber - Eighty Numbered Streets (2002 SMG Records/Brown Chair Records)

By Alex Teitz

Sam Shaber is an emotive, descriptive and creative songwriter whose material continues to evolve. Eighty Numbered Streets marks a new angle to Shaber's work as it is produced by Shawn Mullins, who also plays keyboards and guitars throughout the CD. Mullins' production adds a cleaner, sharper production versus some of Shaber's previous works. Luckily Shaber's vision is unaltered. Mike Steele on bass, David Patterson on electric guitar, and Gerry Hansen on drums and tambo fill out the band. One should also listen for guest musicians from Kristen Hall, Teddy Goldstein, Trina Hamlin and a large assortment of others.

Eighty Numbered Streets is a complete work. It paints a complete picture and fills all the corners. There are songs about New York City including the up-tempo "All of This" to the reflexive "Solitaire." "When The Roses Run Dry" is a gorgeous testament to love done in a rockabilly groove. "Rain and Sunshine" is a story of Shaber's friend Miribel that uses a well placed string arrangement. Shaber's sincere vocals stand out in the album. Her singing style draws the listener in like an old friend.

Eighty Numbered Streets brings Shaber to a new level and it only takes a listen to realize that Shaber is destined for larger things. Shaber's material is a photo album of life as told by the photographer. Any film and television producer should consider it for any project as it is already filling fans' collections nationwide. For more information visit www.samshaber.com and www.smgrecords.com