2008 Woodie Awards
Williams brings catchy acoustics on album
Timothy Martin
Issue date: 12/5/07 Section: Entertainment
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12/05/07 - It is probably safe to assume that most University of Rhode Island students have never heard of Tim Williams, but those who enjoy acoustic rock should quickly learn his name.
Simplistic melodies, heartfelt lyrics and choruses that are as catchy as playground anthems make When Work Is Done the type of CD that can be played without ever skipping a song.
Content-wise Williams is not much different from artists such as Jack Johnson or Howie Day, mixing acoustic riffs with consistent drumbeats and electronically manufactured sounds such as the scratch of a record player to convey a simple, yet elegant, style that should not be overlooked solely on the basis of the fact that Williams is not a household name.
The first track, titled "Novel," deals with the frustration one can feel when advances toward another person are not reciprocated. The lyrics of the song tell the tale of a person who must come to terms with the fact that the relationship he wanted will never be.
While "Novel" might leave some feeling down, Williams quickly picks up his audience with the more upbeat "To and From Tomorrow," which is comprised mainly of a catchy chorus. While the actual lyrical content is not extensive in this song, it is likely to be a favorite for most.
Other songs that are sure to have many singing along are "Out There," "Stop Your Kidding" and "Builds and Explodes"- mainly due to the faster tempos, easy to remember choruses and catchy hooks. These songs also tend to lend themselves to a more mainstream feel, making them an easy add to anyone's iTunes collection.
Those looking for a subdued feel to their acoustic rock need not be disappointed as this album carefully balances mainstream sounds with a more traditional toned-down sound. One is not confined to dancing and singing along with this record - it's just as easy to listen to while studying as it is when one is looking to pass some time.
When Work Is Done by Tim Williams is an amazing venture into the acoustic genre. Williams does a tremendous job by finding his own sound, while not alienating anyone who is a fan of artists that have come before him.
Each song pays homage to works from the past, all while building a path for future artists to explore. It should be remembered that before Jack Johnson was writing songs for the Curious George sound track, he too was just a guy with a guitar trying to make a name for himself.
If When Work Is Done is any indication of what's to come from Williams, it won't be long before his name is known to many.
Simplistic melodies, heartfelt lyrics and choruses that are as catchy as playground anthems make When Work Is Done the type of CD that can be played without ever skipping a song.
Content-wise Williams is not much different from artists such as Jack Johnson or Howie Day, mixing acoustic riffs with consistent drumbeats and electronically manufactured sounds such as the scratch of a record player to convey a simple, yet elegant, style that should not be overlooked solely on the basis of the fact that Williams is not a household name.
The first track, titled "Novel," deals with the frustration one can feel when advances toward another person are not reciprocated. The lyrics of the song tell the tale of a person who must come to terms with the fact that the relationship he wanted will never be.
While "Novel" might leave some feeling down, Williams quickly picks up his audience with the more upbeat "To and From Tomorrow," which is comprised mainly of a catchy chorus. While the actual lyrical content is not extensive in this song, it is likely to be a favorite for most.
Other songs that are sure to have many singing along are "Out There," "Stop Your Kidding" and "Builds and Explodes"- mainly due to the faster tempos, easy to remember choruses and catchy hooks. These songs also tend to lend themselves to a more mainstream feel, making them an easy add to anyone's iTunes collection.
Those looking for a subdued feel to their acoustic rock need not be disappointed as this album carefully balances mainstream sounds with a more traditional toned-down sound. One is not confined to dancing and singing along with this record - it's just as easy to listen to while studying as it is when one is looking to pass some time.
When Work Is Done by Tim Williams is an amazing venture into the acoustic genre. Williams does a tremendous job by finding his own sound, while not alienating anyone who is a fan of artists that have come before him.
Each song pays homage to works from the past, all while building a path for future artists to explore. It should be remembered that before Jack Johnson was writing songs for the Curious George sound track, he too was just a guy with a guitar trying to make a name for himself.
If When Work Is Done is any indication of what's to come from Williams, it won't be long before his name is known to many.