His own voice.
Keyboardist/singer Vince Melamed has written hits through the years for Trisha Yearwood, Tina Turner, Jimmy Buffett and others. At the same time he was a musician for acts like the Eagles, Dan Fogelberg, Bobby Womack and Bob Dylan.
That explains that the the songs that are on his first CD now, were written between 1990 and 2009. Because of his parents’ death Melamed realised that he wanted to record the songs that had been turned into hits by others under his own name.
Apart from those songs, mostly sung by country acts, there are four new songs on his CD too. In his versions rootsy rock is the most important influence for Melamed and his experienced accompanists, among whom guitar player Pat Buchanon ( Faith Hill ) and drummer Fred Eltringham (Wallflowers, Dixie Chicks ). At the same time his ever melodic songs combine a well-balanced production with influences from rhythm ‘n’ blues and country too, which makes them layered.
On his keyboards the young-sounding, emotionally singing Melamed merely accompanies, thus leaving space for Buchanon’s sensitive as well as measured guitar solos. That all ten of them are of a high quality, may be logical with such a long career as a songwriter. It also makes Melamed’s debut constant in a seldom heard way, with songs that stand out like I’ll Take That As A Yes and Damn Your Love.
***1/2