Robert Cherry

Fans of Robert Cherry’s previous band Ether Net may be surprised and even disappointed when they hear the debut solo effort from the Cleveland musician.

Cherry has largely abandoned the atmospheric rock sound of his former band in favour of a psychedelia-tinged classic pop-rock sound that wouldn’t sound entirely out of place on the play list of a classic rock station. Fans of Toronto’s Peter Elkas will definitely dig this CD. While the boisterous, arena-friendly rock of the lead off track, ‘Perfect Soul, might lead the listener to think otherwise, the nine tracks that follow are decidedly more subdued than the disc’s opening moments.

Given the nature of The New Forever’s lyrical content, it might be tempting to write Cherry off as yet another introspective singer-songwriter. However, songs like ‘Time to Stop’ and the achingly beautiful closing track ‘Green and Silver’ reveal a level of maturity that distinguishes him from the other guitar-wielding sensitive types.

Cherry’s warm vocals compliment his lyrics perfectly. They mix equal parts pathos and cynicism, bringing a sense of confessional intimacy to the disc’s 10 tracks.

The New Foreveris one of those damn near flawless pop records that actually stands up to repeated listens. While Cherry’s music isn’t going to change the world, it will doubtlessly win the heart of anyone who tracks down this gem.