Gary Melvin's "Trust": Music Review

Gary Melvin's "Trust"

Music Review

By our guest blogger, Megan O'Malley

Gary Melvin is a California-based singer/songwriter who recently released his second album “Trust.” This former studio musician’s biggest claim to fame is have his song “Taking Over Me” be featured on “The Young and The Restless.” Although musically, “Trust” has its great moments, as a whole, the album is kind of forgettable.

For a man, Melvin has a very soft and lilting voice. While this ethereal quality tends to be better suited for a woman there are times when he really uses it to his advantage. His voice can achieve an intimate quality that tends to get lost  when he employs a deeper and more powerful voice, particularly on the song “Angel Moon.” Although he uses his softer voice to the best of his abilities, on the song “Alright,” it occasionally sounds like he’s straining to hit the notes.

He seems to find his stride during the latter half of “Trust.” I also liked the range of instruments used throughout the songs. Musicians who can incorporate saxophones, trumpets and Wurlitzers show a good range of creativity.  Musically, “Hold On” is a pretty good sounding song with its ups, downs and various changes. Lyrically, though, the song is bland.

Gary Melvin is not the most original of artists. Who are his influences? How does he want to make himself stand out from all the other wannabe John Mayers of the world? “Trust” shows his strengths as a musician but his voice and lyrics are lacking. Until he finds something to help stand out among the thousands of other singer/songwriters, Gary Melvin will continue to get lost in the crowd.

And you can trust in that.