CD Review

David Turbow, founder of Onset Records and guitarist for Southern California alt-rockers Supernovice, has released the second installment in his solo demo series. Recorded in just twenty hours, Digital 8-track Ditties is a 5 track showcase which displays Turbow’s prowess as a singer/songwriter, and touches on many of his diverse influences. While it’s clear that Turbow goes well beyond the traditional folk heroes of the past, like Dylan and Guthrie, his efforts ultimately fall short of creating his own sound, much less do his predecessors any justice. And unfortunately, due to the fact that it was recorded, mixed, and mastered all on a minimal home setup, it’s hard to say whether he is an obscure, diamond in the rough hidden in poor production, or quite simply just not ready for the studio.

There are some flashes of guitar skills on “Summer Hath Come” and “Reasons to take this," but they are inevitably overshadowed by his lack-luster voice and sophomoric lyrics. Turbow may like the idea of being a musician, but his talents are apparently more suited for running his SoCal indie label.