Bob Schneider

Don’t be mislead by the title of the most recent CD from Austin, TX based roots rocker Bob Schneider. I’m Good Now, is not meant as a reference to his being released from his contract with Universal records, nor the fact that he’s been drug free for several years. Instead, the title refers to an epitaph of a party animal. With a country and western twang, the title cut lightheartedly pokes fun at all of the troubles one can get into in life, and then laughing as they pass before your eyes like a last wish.

With a slight confessional bent, the songs all work in a cathartic manner for Schneider, a self proclaimed hell raiser. Sometimes moody and reflective - “Come With Me Tonight,” “Long Way To get,” comical and witty, “God Is My Friend,” the CD runs the gamut through the singer/songwriter cannon. Those same elements all find a place as well on the anthemic guitar rocker “Cmon Baby.” Introspective in its lyrics, “Just want to stop and catch my breath/Just want to spend one moment on this planet not scared to death,” the song rocks musically with teen spirit. Then the quirky “Capn Kirk” and the infectious “Gold In The Sunset” both ride a surf melody down the boardwalk. The former is a summer hymn meant to inspire good times, while the latter is a bit nonsensical lyrically, but none the less melodious.

A fixture on the scene of the music capital of the world, Schneider fronted several nationally known bands, including The Ugly Americans. And in early 2001 he signed with Universal Records and released a solo CD under the name Lonelyland. But with this shrewdly titled CD under his own name, he seems to finally be comfortable in his own skin.

---