Gary Wright – Connected (Larkio Music) – CD Review –

It’s good to hear Gary’s voice again.  This is his first rock-oriented album in 20 years.  Over that time, he put out albums delving into world music and other experiments.  The leadoff track, “Satisfied,” has a pulsating rhythm and a gospel choir chorus.  Wright’s soulful rasp still has that familiar resonance.

Not surprisingly, Connected is a mostly keyboard-driven affair, with guests Ringo Starr on drums, and Joe Walsh & Jeff “Skunk” Baxter on guitars sprinkled in for good measure.  The disc is full of hooks and catchy choruses.  Perhaps it’s the kind of keyboards that he uses or maybe that some of these tracks have been lying around for awhile, but this disc has a decidedly 1980’s feel to it.  This certainly isn’t a bad thing; I would rather Gary sound comfortable in some sound from the past than update his style and fall flat.  If you purchase the disc through www.thedreamweaver.com there are several bonus tracks featuring the late George Harrison as well. — Tony Peters