Lloyd Shines in Solo Album Debut

Marty Lloyd (former lead singer and front man of the Freddy Jones Band) didn't let anyone down with the completion of his first album, Marigold. Lloyd brings his energy and strong lyrics with his solo debut that lets the listener into his world through vibrant storytelling and passionate guitar riffs. Lloyd and his bandmates (Larry Beers, drums, Michael Rhodes bass, Rob Bonaccorsi, guitar) haven't been playing together for very long (with the exception of Bonaccorsi, another former Freddy Jones Band member), but their music flows so well that no one would ever suspect a thing.

The album's first track, Justified, jumps out with a quick lead and presents the listener with a catchy tune, leaving him wanting more. But Lloyd doesn't stop with the first track. The album is so complete that it would be hard to uncover a clear single from the disc because so many of the songs could make an impeccable radio playlist.

However, the second track on the album is most likely to be Lloyd's first single. The song, American Dream, is the best example of Lloyd's storytelling abilities. Lyrics seem to overshadow the music - with powerful harmonies that wrap around guitar strumming and a steady beat.

The title track, Marigold, could be a contender for the single from the album. The song starts off with an forgettable guitar strum/slide and the chorus produces a melody that won't leave the listeners head: "Cause I never thought the sun could ever get cold / Follow in my father's footsteps alone / Every good revel would never get old / Hot flash and Marigold."

The album is not simply made up of catchy guitar rifts and lyrical harmonies. On the track Josephine the listener tastes a bigger sample of the band's musical abilities. The music flows nicely with the addition of string instruments and more percussion.

And the album does not fall off toward the end. The last two songs, Where We Started From and Dancing Here With You both start off slow and simple, but quickly jump into true Lloyd form with their bold melodies. It is easy to see that the disc is pure and polished.

Although the band currently does not have a record label, their song American Dream appeared on Aware Record's eighth compilation disc and Aware is currently selling their CD. Marty and the band will continue to play small venues in Chicago, where their live material clearly overpowers their studio work. The band undoubtedly plays better live than the debut album allows.

With the way the band's CD is playing, they should have no problem finding a record deal. While listeners of the former Freddy Jones Band continue to support the band's music, other listeners are quickly learning about the album and are flocking to venues to see Lloyd and the band perform.