The story of musicians embarking upon projects drastically different than what they’re known for is as old as time. Some do so to challenge themselves creatively. Others do so because they can’t express themselves as such under their main creative vehicle. And then you’ve got those who do so because of a little bit of both, with a side of “Why not?” This is the vibe I get when listening to Robert Tepper’s latest album, Feels Like Monday: A 15 song, 50+ minute collection of everything BUT the anthemic 80s AOR that put him on the map.
For those who enjoy their music strictly in the melodic rock vein, this may sound like a turn off, especially coming off the heels of the brilliant Better Than the Rest (2019). With its arena friendly hooks, retro production, and bold vocals, BTTR confirmed that Tepper is still a force to be reckoned with, capable of crafting AOR anthems on par with the finest of today’s euro crops (i.e. H.E.A.T, Eclipse, Crazy Lixx, etc.). And while I’m sure Tepper has another album in this vein ready to go (from the sound of our interview, the pandemic kept him very busy), why do the same thing twice? Unless you’re AC/DC, in which case, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!
Feels Like Monday is largely characterized by laidback singer/songwriter compositions with folksy harmonies and production values that tow the line between modern and classic. In terms of arrangement and approach, one can immediately draw parallels to the softer side of Bryan Adams, an AOR giant in his own right. This is especially heard on cuts like “This Is the Last Time”, “Dull Grey Morning”, “Tell Me How the Puzzle Goes”, and the opening title track. Truthfully, I don’t go out of my way to listen to music in this style, but Tepper keeps me hooked with his introspective lyrics, honest delivery, and unmistakable voice.
There is, however, much more to Feels Like Monday than folk pop. There’s experimentations with country and southern rock on the upbeat “Ain’t No Rules for a Pretty Girl”, the delicate “Oh, Arkansas”, and Allman Brothers meets Skynyrd romp of “Shady Town”. “Golden Ring” screams Lennon and McCartney with its Beatlesesque chords, harmonies, and trippy reverse guitar passage to close it out. And the quirky “One of a Kind” channels the MTV era, thanks to its sugary chorus, new wave inspired synths, and weighty guitar riffs. In other words, this isn’t your average singer/songwriter affair!
Feels Like Monday is great for what it is, and that’s the antithesis of an AOR album. All kidding aside, at no point does it feel bogged down by its lengthy run time, and I commend Tepper for this. Even the best albums of the “fill the CD era” (1990 on) tend to get a bit tedious by the 40 minute mark. Feels Like Monday doesn’t. That in and of itself is an achievement, and the music within is damn strong too. Mondays have never sounded better!
7 out of 10
Label: Heavy Breather Records
Genre: Rock
For fans of: Bryan Adams, Don Henley, The Beatles