CD Review

Posthumous albums often tend to be a forced effort from record companies to squeeze every last penny out of an unfortunate circumstance. Rarely do you find an artist with an extensive catalog worthy of such legacy. But it’s the case with late Widespread Panic founding member and guitarist Michael Houser. The last solo recordings he made before passing away from pancreatic cancer in August of 2002 are unveiled on Sandbox, showcasing the man’s remarkable taste for melody and word; a side that we truly didn’t get enough of on the upside of his lingering lead.

Unlike his first solo release, 2002’s instrumental Doorharp, Sandbox is composed of straight-forward rock songs with a polished expression. Featuring guest appearances from former bandmates John Bell, Sonny Ortiz and Todd Nance, it’s a reunion of sorts brought to life by producer John Keane. From the opening track, “No Matter What,” with gritty Bell background vocals, to the sparkling chorus of “Low Country” where Houser calmly sings, “Happy I am, As a clam” – we’re presented with songs running parallel to some of Widespread Panic’s finest. And like any farewell album, there is a mission of goodbye on Sandbox, namely “Goodbye My Love,” “Solitude” and “No Cryin Now.” Despite that tear provoking material, Sandbox is as spirited a goodbye as any of us can ask for.

To hear more about Sandbox, listen to Glide Magazine's "Smell The Gove" podcast #4, for a revealing interview with producer John Keane.