BOSTON/NE BANDS, Music

Jim Leonard — Treble in Paradise

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Rock ‘n’ high roller Jim Leonard’s latest album “Treble in Paradise,” released in February, is a psychedelic trip down the rabbit hole. Playing out like a story unfurling in the wash, it starts off with a bang. A cacophony of voices yell out the title track in quick succession lending themselves as an introduction to the album itself. Less than a minute, they seep into the second track and a velvety guitar as Leonard sings his satirical “rules of rock.” This is music about making music, without being overtly preachy.

So, what are Leonard’s rules of rock? “You can smoke on aeroplanes, sell out a show and spit on your fans,” he sings of performers in general, anywhere from Justin Bieber to  GG Allin. “The rules of rock are there are no rules . . . You have to be cool,” states Leonard, admitting the “It” factor behind the cult of personality. Because of the comedic tone of his lyrics, it’s doubtful that Leonard follows his own rules. Subliminally urging performers to rekindle their connection with their instruments, listeners will enjoy this dose of classic rock ‘n’ roll via the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s. “Snoopy” sounds like a Clash song made by Americans, and “Spacer Man” is like an experiment made while listening to the Talking Heads. “Treble in Paradise” is an ode to rock.

“Treble in Paradise” is available through Leonard’s Bandcamp page for seven bucks.

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