Brian Cullman
The Opposite of Time
Reviewed by: Tiffany Taylor
Brian Cullman is floating back into the pools of music with his second solo full length The Opposite of Time. This time around Cullman is letting his music speak for itself with a crisp and vibrant feel, something that barely needs explanation. Any good album tells a journey and The Opposite of Time does just that, with its lyrics taking the listener down untraveled roads and to scenic overlooks, it does not stop short of taking the mind far, far away. The album itself was recorded by Hector Castillo (Philip Glass, Bjork, David Bowie) at The Maid’s Room in New York’s Lower East Side.
Along with the raw sound from Brian Cullman, Jenni Muldaur is featured as backing vocals, the Brazilian Girls on drums & keyboards, Glenn Patscha plays piano and organ, Byron Isaacs on bass, and Jimi Zhivago on guitars. The Opposite of Time begins with “Times Are Tight” which is a weak opening for what will soon come to follow. The slow ballad has a good rhythmic feel, but not enough to make listeners keep going. As a first track goes it was sadly mediocre. Fortunately “And She Said” is the track immediately after and it makes up for the sulkiness of the intro. Upbeat melodies from every corner of the music spectrum take you over from Cullman’s lyrics to the rest of the groups guitars and keyboards. The record is classified as indie, but it almost transcends a folk feel from decades ago.
As the album progresses into the middle of its tracks, “Hands of the Rain” clicks on. This record makes me want to put a vinyl on and just kick back. Cullman has such an effortless way of using his words to transport his listeners to a time where things feel simple and free. “Walk the Dog Before I Sleep” is another song that combines different feels and genres that could appeal to a mass audience. With this track he continues to take his listeners on a journey, this time on a long highway during sunset. Each song presents a different backdrop, a different setting, it is simply incredible.
Although the album does not showcase big, bold flavors, it does paint a beautiful picture with unique sounds and words. Brian Cullman is definitely an artist who writes from his soul and not to please an audience. The story of who Cullman is shows through and through from beginning to end in The Opposite of Time. If you are looking for an easy listening, heart tugging, new piece of music to grab a hold of, this album is definitely for you.
Rating: Listenable
