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Skinnie: One Add One

By Gina Vodegel
July 15, 2010
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He's a man of few words who prefers a simple approach. His debut EP, My Heart Beats On The Moon (REMusic Records, 2008), a collection of five songs, is now followed by yet another mini-album of only seven compositions. Once again, Dutch singer-songwriter Skinnie makes sure he is in the best of company, this time relying on two outstanding and seasoned musicians—guitarist Martijn van Agt (Anouk, Ilse DeLange, Sarah Bettens), and multi-instrumentalist/producer Michel van Schie (

Candy Dulfer

saxophone, alto

" data-original-title="" title="">Candy Dulfer, Anouk, Soulvation)—who definitely elevate Skinnie's songs onto a higher plane.

Skinnie's reflective lyrics about love, loss, generosity, resignation, truth, dreams, desire and playful contemplation are woven into a setting of lush musical moods leaning towards pop, country, blues and jazz in an intelligent design. The subtle tones of van Agt's pedal steel and slide guitar characterize a sense for detail and finesse that all three musicians have in common. The disc starts and ends with "Sailing," in a single edit and album version. It's a catchy tune, with a likewise attractive and perhaps recognizable imagery provided by lyrics about escaping reality for a while, until a neighbor at the door complains about the trash in the garden. Skinnie delivers his songs in a warm and genuine manner with his deep and sometimes husky voice.

The title track has a few surprises, and showcases van Agt's skills on guitar with distinctive flavors and hints reminiscent of the sound that makes the music of

Steely Dan

band / ensemble / orchestra
b.1972

" data-original-title="" title="">Steely Dan appreciated in wider musical circles. It's an approach and arrangement that also returns in "No Little Girl, No More." "Can't Cut You Loose" stands out; a beautiful sensitive ballad about accepting life and relationships the way they are, after questioning their values and virtues.

It's a very pleasant album that, like its predecessor, asks for more. If there has to be critique, then it would serve to point out some flaws in the English lyrics. A few mistakes that can easily be forgiven, as these sailing and flying Dutchmen do understand the craft of musicianship to the max. Music, after all, is a universal language; a language that Skinnie and company know how to speak very well.

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Track Listing

Sailing (radio edit); One Add One; Mama I Just Killed A Girl; Nobody Else; No Little Girl, No More; Can't Cut You Loose; Sailing.

Personnel

Skinnie

Skinnie: lead vocal, backing vocals, acoustic guitar; Michel van Schie: bass, drums, keys; Martijn van Agt: electric guitars, slide guitar, pedal steel.

Album information

Title: One Add One | Year Released: 2010 | Record Label: MCP

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