Jeff Krebs, Keep an Eye Out (Head Information, 2000) Keep An Eye Out is the third and most recent release by singer-songwriter Jeff Krebs. Jeff spent his childhood years in the midwest, part of a family that played old-time Americana music; however, Jeff emigrated to San Francisco, the place he now calls home, some dozen years ago. Although Krebs is generally classified as a singer-songwriter, there is certainly nothing mundane or repetitive about his music. Jeff is adept at playing anything from old-time American music to edgy folk-rock, with all stops in between. At the same time, one can hear elements of world music, particularly that of Latin America, in his work. Kreb's lyrics have a razor edge to them, and are often bitingly satirical, but always with a leavening dose of humor. Krebs has a really smooth voice that will take the listener through some dark places, but those dark places are almost invariably tinged with an element of hope. The tone of Keep An Eye Out is set with the opening title track, "Keep an Eye Out," which mixes old-time banjo with folk-rock electric guitar, and does so very effectively. While there are no "throwaway" tracks among the dozen found on Keep An Eye Out, standout tracks are "Up in the Old Hotel," "Another Piece," "Tango Delle Rose," "Pull," "Problem By the Door" and "Sweet Dreams." "Apache Boulevard" and "The Same Train" are the two exceptionally well-crafted songs found on this album. Those who are already familiar with Jeff Kreb's work will be well pleased with Keep An Eye Out. Those who have yet to discover Jeff Krebs will want to take this opportunity to do so. |
Rambles.NET music review by Robert Buck 23 February 2001 Agree? Disagree? Send us your opinions! |