The term official bootleg is an oxymoron, a contradiction in terms, because a bootleg is defined as a product, that is illicitly produced, distributed, or sold. And since Chris Rob has released this self-written/recorded/produced CD-R on his own to have a compilation of songs, he could give people to show, what kind of music he makes, this is actually more a demo CD than an illegal bootleg (now that’s a pleonasm).
The rough and unpolished sound of some songs is another indicator of the demo nature of this CD. Anyway, Chris has some impressive songs to offer. Namely the ultrafunky Said You’d Never Leave with it’s stomping rhythm and the great call and response of Chris’ lead and background vocals is an instant winner for my ears. There’s also an impressive live version recorded at the S.O.B.’s in NYC with Maya Azucena on background vocals.
The studio version of Tell ‘Em is a pleasant midtempo neo soul song while the live version features a fierce organ solo by Chris. And I wish he would’ve included a longer live version, actually it sounds more like the last three minutes of an inspiring live performance.
Just like on the Russell Taylor album there are some songs that suffer a little from the instrumentation and a re-recording with real instruments could turn good songs like Make Love Tonight or Jessie Bell into great songs.
All in all the Official Bootleg Of Chris Rob is a fine showcase for Chris as singer and songwriter and I’m sure we will by all means hear more from him soon. It features some great songs and some rough diamonds that hopefully will see some polishing on Chris’ next release.

Tracklisting of The Official Bootleg Of Chris Rob Vol. I: 1. Prelude/ 2. Said You’d Never Leave Me/ 3. Make Love Tonight/ 4. Dance With Me/ 5. Tell ‘Em/ 6. Jessie Bell/ 7. Naima/ 8. Said You’d Never Leave Me(Live at S.O.B.’s, New York)/ 9. Tell ‘Em (Live at S.O.B.’s, New York) | released 2003 New Day Entertainment

For more infos visit chrisrobonline.com and cdbaby.com.

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