Terry Gomes: Reviews/Interviews

I’ll say this much: It’s hard not to like Terry Gomes….This two-disc compilation encompasses a variety of styles that fit Gomes’ many influences…proof that Gomes cares about his craft…. and showcasing Gomes’ considerable range. “Seafoam Green” sounds like a little campfire ditty and “Now Is The Time” is a blend of folk and Paul Simon…the downbeat style of “Fine,” brings to mind that other famous Canadian band, the Barenaked Ladies…“My Own Little World” is a nagging ditty that will get stuck in your head. Teenager” is an interesting look back at an adolescence that never happened but is happening now. “Socantina” features some great Latin-esque guitar….the wistful “I Dream Of Boats” is as evocative as “Hey Sweet Shirley” is fun….The fun thing about discs like these is the element of surprise….The disc coming out later in 2008 will determine a lot about his future. Based on this, it looks pretty good.

I think I enjoyed this CD even more than Side A. With its universal themes, there's something for everyone. Who hasn't been duped by an older sibling or a friend (Fish Tracks), been cautious about entering a relationship (If I Could Tell You), or feel the heartbreak of one's feelings not being shared by the other (Let's Be Lonely Together, Something Changed That Night)? I found many songs I could identify with and that brought back memories, both fond and not so fond. You can't ask much more of a song than that. If I had to choose a favourite, though, it would be the haunting metaphor of I Dream of Boats. And, of course, it's always fun when Terry goes back to his Guyanese roots! Anxiously awaiting the next installment, Terry....

Jane

It’s a nice variety of ballads and up tempo tunes, leaning more toward adult contemporary but also venturing into mainstream country….He’s a heckofa guitar player too…hope shines brightly on “I Dream of Boats”….the imagery really tells the story well. I love the arrangement too, not too cluttered and featuring his lovely acoustic guitar work....Another standout cut is “Socantina,” the only instrumental here, and it features a beautiful latin-flavored acoustic guitar and earthy hand percussion….this would be great background music for a TV show or movie….Gomes is great when he relaxes and does what he knows best….great acoustic guitar work and tender imagery….

Well done. Once again you have managed to tell us stories that either bring back some of our own memories, make us think, or just put a smile on our faces. I always listen for the unexpected with your songs and you never disappoint such as in "Tell it to me Straight". Keep the music comin'!

It has taken me a while, but I am now here to rave about your latest compilation. Side B is AWESOME! I especially love "Something Changed That Night". It is that much better, however, when sung by my 6 year old in the back seat! She loves it too! The story in "Fish Tracks" is one that is close to my heart, as I do my best to guide our young people into finding their way in the world. Great album, Terry!

I liked many of them, "It's a Dirty Job", "If I Could Tell You" stayed with me, but I thought the whole thing was well done & was fascinated by the sequencing...Cheers, Bill.

I LOVE side B! I know it’s a dirty, dirty, dirty job, but…. Love that one and #5 and #6 and…we'll talk soon....

Terry, I can see why you invite us to wear many hats while listening to Gomesongs Side B -from country to easy listening to the island sounds of "Hey Sweet Shirley" - something for everyone. I particularly enjoyed the lyrics of "I've got your name on me" and the instrumental "Socantina". Great interview on Friday, Congrats!

I got wonderful gift from my wife Vera. It's your new
CD-2008. We have enjoyed all songs at this time. Thank you. Happily!
Marko & Vera

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Terry Gomes has a good CD here - overall. He starts the CD with a song in an off time signature, I was to surprised to hear the next song was more straightforward, a real narration style song. He displays many different styles, some good, some OK. As a songwriter is where he truly excelled, some of the songs if sung and produced by the right people could be on the radio. I encourage you all to check out http://www.terrygomes.com for more information on this upcoming Canadian songwriter.

Gomesongs Side A is a delight. From the first guitar lick to the last note, this project is well-polished and brought a smile to my face. Gomes did a great job on the production. The mastering job is great; the instruments have separation and presence. Very often, musicians have a tendency to overlook the production of a project which could be the difference between a good CD or a great CD. Thankfully, Gomes did not take the easy road on this project.

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From the Great North in Ottawa, Terry Gomes comes down to the States to peer into our envelope of surprising pop-rock. His music is sincere rock ‘n’ roll with passionate asides and very excellent melodies that recall Paul Simon. I enjoy his upbeat guitar strums and light pop harmonies and how they intertwine with his song arrangements. Good stuff.

Just finished listening to Gomesongs Side A. Very impressive. Very good beat for "Now is the Time" and "Leyanna". Terry is an up and coming songwriter and singer and I wish him nothing but the best.

Vince from South Jersey

Karen and I sat one evening and listened to each song on your new CD "Gomesongs Side A". We read everything in the CD jacket to get a complete understanding of the recordings. We can safely say without a doubt how much we enjoyed the music, the name of the CD and the words to describe the music and lyrics of each song. You have put a lot of thought and effort into this and you are to be congratulated. I'm sure your future will be sparkling with other great creations.

After enjoying Gomesongs Side A, I will be anxious for the release of Side B! I particularly enjoyed "Now is the Time" and "Seafoam Green". My son who is 19 loved these songs as well. You are a very talented artist, Terry!

I loved this CD. The music covers everything from country (Real Good Time) to folk (The Return of Johnny Heart) to island rhythms (Leyanna). I can also hear Seafoam Green (one of my favourites) being sung around a campfire by a gang of rowdy kids. I knew from the beginning of the CD, with the catchy, upbeat tempo of Now is the Time, that this would be a CD I'd enjoy and I wasn't disappointed. Terry's lyrics are both clever and thought provoking and there's something for everyone. I look forward to hearing more from this artist.

It's hard to know where to begin. I loved the humor (and message) in Sea Foam Green and the up beat pace of Leyanna, again with it's message woven into the words. I must admit though that it was The Return of Johnny Heart and My Own Little World that left me thinking the most. I think so many of us have a Johnny (or Mary!) Heart that we can't shake from our minds. I also believe that we all need to have that little place that we can escape to once in a while. It's nice to know that I'm not the only one out there retreating to my calm place at times. All and all a great CD. I look forward to Terry's next CD.

With so many Top 40 hits sounding bland and processed, it's refreshing to hear songs that aren't afraid to be melodic, musical, and memorable. I'm amazed at how catchy and energetic these Gomesongs can be -- not only the upbeat songs like "Now is the Time" and "Teenager", but even a more thoughtful song like "Fine" which never sounds heavy or grim despite its message. And as for "Leyanna" and "Sea Foam Green", try, just try to keep them from playing in your head long after you've turned off the stereo. Bottom line: these are songs to remember.

Terry: You are a brilliant songwriter: a blend of Sir Paul McCartney's wonderful ditties and the great humour of the Barenaked Ladies. The only problem is that I can't get the songs out of my mind and end up falling asleep to them!!! Now, that's what I call music.

Hi Terry: At last we have listened to Gomesongs Side A through and through, not once, but a number of times. Paul and I have only two comments.....G-R-E-A-T. and I-M-P-R-E-S-S-I-V-E. Last, but not least, the cool dude on the cover is not bad looking either! Good work and good luck with Side B!