Released as one album, Up to Date is actually a collection of music from Rod Paterson's first two albums, Two Hats (1987) and Smiling Waved Goodbye (1988), which blend lyrical storytelling with good melodies to produce toe-tapping Scottish easy-listening, showcasing fine examples of Paterson's vocal capacity, as well as good instrumentation.

In the first half, Paterson pulls full duty, holding down the vocal, guitar and bass while backed by Dick Lee on various saxes and recorder. Mostly these tunes are quiet and more subdued. With tracks like "Every Time We Say Good Bye," "My Funny Valentine" and "The Bleacher Lass O' Kelvinhaugh," he sets a mellow tone that will appeal to the more mature listeners. That is not to say that there isn't a good toe-tapper in the mix. "Willie Wassel" provides a good tempo and guitar that picks up the pace.

The second half brings a bit of a richer sound. Paterson is backed not only by Lee, but also Jack Evans (lead guitar, bass, whistle and harmonica), Hamish Moore (Scottish small pipes), Ron Shaw (cello) and James Mackintosh (drums).

A mix of some traditional tracks and some original works, there is a more upbeat feeling here, as the storytelling aspects of this genre are present. Here we get an inspiration encouragement in "Roll That Boulder Away," or here the tale of "Lord Gordon's Kitchen Boy." Finishing out the album is "A Wee Flingette," an instrumental piece that has the sound of early American blues-rock.

[ by Charlie Gebetsberger ]