Tom Hedrick

"As If!" CD

Freedom of Speech

Genres: comedy rock

Apr 14 - 20 2003

Tom Hedrick plays goody comedy rock that, while not bad, is nowhere near spectacular.  On As If!, the lyrics seem immature and seemingly children-oriented, and the instrumentation is unspectacular except for the occasional accordion, harmonica, or horn.

"James K. Polk," the album's most inspired moment, is a silly homage to the obscure president made particularly good by the inclusion of sax, trumpet, and trombone in the arrangement - it's also surprisingly catchy and fun, with a great sing-a-long chorus.  If only all the tracks were that good.  "The Panic Song," on the other hand, is irritatingly cheesy, and "Little Saturn" just basks in its own excruciating lameness.

While some of the songs (especially "James K. Polk") are really inspired, and Hedrick's spirit is an amiable one in its positive, happy mood, lots of As If! could use work.  There are many lame bits here, and the music isn't particularly varied, meaning the formula gets old rather quickly. 

Overall, some funnier jokes and a bit more variety would be appreciated but, hey, at least this isn't Weird Al Yankovic.

70%

Fun Fact: James K. Polk was president between 1845 and 1849.  He was a leading factor in the annexation of Texas.

Matt Shimmer

[Vitals: 14 songs, released 2002]