ANDY GERMAK has lived the typically nomadic lifestyle of an American growing up, having lived in six different states, spent time in Italy and travelled extensively throughout the USA and Europe.
Nothing unlikely there you'd say, but the experience that comes with all this has surely strengthened his ability as a singer/ songwriter, as he displays an impressive turn of phrase and likeable world-weariness on the four well-crafted tunes on this fine EP "Anybody Ever Really Know Anyone?"
We'll come back to the EP in a moment, but let's examine Germak's CV for a moment. It's impressive, taking in an extensive review in 'Rolling Stone' for his first album "Colour Through The Smoke", appearances at the Smithsonian Folkways 20th Anniversary Fast Folk Concert in New York circa 2002 and contributing a track to the Suzanne Vega benefit album "Vigil" which donated proceeds to families of victims of the 9/11 Tragedy.
These not insubstantial achievements are given credence by the music on Andy's recent EP "Anybody Ever Really Know Anyone?", which features three tunes showcasing Germak's full band and the closing "Crazier Than You" which is more in keeping with the acoustic troubadour persona he demonstrates at solo shows.
The title track is the obvious 'radio' song and kicks off the EP. It's excellent too: a finely-turned comment on America's own Kim Philby-style superspy Robert Philip Hanssen, the long-serving secret services ordinary Joe who was never given a second glance, yet was caught collecting his pay from the Russians in a park just prior to his retirement. The song itself is an irresistible slice of classic power pop a la early Cars or Elvis Costello, with a gutsy vocal from Germak, reined in venom from the band and some perfect, fruity organ. Immediate in a word.
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The other two tunes featuring the full band allow the players to stretch a little, though Andy's songs are always the key issue. "Emily's Changing" has a similarly chugging rhythm, but is a little more wigged-out, revelling in its' own darkness, while "Think It Through" is plangent'n'propulsive, with Byrds-y guitars and a distinct nod to that other terminally under-rated singer/ songwriter Freedy Johnston. It's a cool two and a half minutes made by Matt Beck's lazy slide guitar.
Fina track "Crazier Than You" showcases Germak's folkier, acoustic side, though he's aided by bassist Arnold Gottlieb. It's not quite as memorable as the other songs, but still convincing enough and a good example of how Andy's songs can still be effective when pared-down.
"Anybody Ever Really Know Anyone?" is a quality EP from an unassuming East Coast performer who deserves better than to remain under the critical and commercial radar. Andy Germak is a name to keep in mind.
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