It may have a simple title that goes right to the point and an unobtrusive cover, but this tenth studio album by A.J. Croce opens doors on several fronts. Firstly those coming across this American singer-songwriter for the first time can be forgiven for asking what else has he done over a thirty-year career. Secondly it may lead to shining a new light on his late father Jim Croce who's backstory fits into his son's narrative albeit for a very brief period. Finally there could be an inquisitive nature to compare the versions of each of the twelve songs appearing on this record with their originals or many of the ubiquitous versions that have appeared over the years.
BY REQUEST sees Croce take a break from the original material and literally put his hand to any song somebody as thrown at him in those late night sessions when anything musically goes. The result is a full-on production with Croce leading the way on trademark piano and vocals. Perhaps the indicative album cover suggests it's the songs that reign supreme and the performer merely has them on loan. It is supposed that when you are interpreting songs made famous by acts such as Neil Young, Tom Waites, Sam Cooke, Randy Newman and Alan Toussaint to name a few of the artists featured you are just adding an umpteenth coat.
However from start to finish there is an air of quality and panache to how Croce puts his spin on them. It is a fun album to play and you get to feel the artist's sense of satisfaction to how this project has unveiled. There are no air of pretension and a relaxed aura feeds through the waves to your ear.
The album explores a deeply influential corner of the American songbook, although Canada and the UK will pipe up to the origins of Neil Young and The Faces. The selections sweep across the genre divides with a common bond being acutely important entries in the journal of popular music. There is no shame in being pitched classic tracks and scratching your head as to where your ears have been over the years.
BY REQUEST is hugely personal to A.J. Croce, but I'm sure he will not mind if it provokes further interest in any direction. The most important thing is that a credible and enjoyable album is shared for folks to at least consider when they feel a break is needed from new music and to take a step back into what has influenced generations over the years.
Track listing with some famous artist association:
Nothing from Nothing - Billy Preston: Only Love Can Break Your Heart - Neil Young: Have You Seen My Baby - Randy Newman: Nothing Can Change This Love - Sam Cooke: Better Day - Sonny & Browne: Ooh Child - The Five Stair Steps: Stay With Me - The Faces: Brickyard Blues - Alan Toussaint: San Diego Serenade - Tom Waits: Sail on Sailor - Beach Boys: Can't Nobody Love You - Solomon Burke: Ain't No Justice - Shorty Long