It's all about the music for Toronto singer-songwriter Allan Rayman, who shuns the spotlight and would rather his art speak for itself. The approach is not unlike that of the beginnings of a fellow Torontonian, The Weeknd. Musically, however, Rayman relies on rock, blues, funk and soul tropes to get his emotive inner-workings out. Roadhouse 01, the debut album from the enigmatic artist, feels distinct and heartfelt, with a gritty, raw mood at the center of the tracks. In addition to aforementioned genres, Rayman incorporates trap/r&b sounds into some of the songs: check "Repeat" featuring Jessie Reyez, "Shelby Moves," or "Left Alone." The less-is-more opener "Wolf" also leaves a lasting impression, with "Faust Road" and "Head Over Heel" also being highlights. Productions are varied but never over reach, which is great as there is plenty of room for Rayman's vocals, the real attraction here, to pop . This is the red vinyl pressing of the album.

• insert w/ liner notes
• red vinyl pressing
• music label: Communion Records 2017

reviewed by enbee 02/2017