David Ackles

Road to Cairo (1970) is the parenthetical title that was given to David Ackles' debut by Elektra Records in much the same manner that the eponymous Elton John LP was referred to as "Your Song." Although both artists have roots as singer/songwriters, Ackles' music is decidedly less pop-oriented and stylistically resembles Leonard Cohen and Tim Buckley with their darker and brooding melodies. Ackles' initial foray into pop music began as a staff songwriter for Elektra Records, which ultimately yielded him a multi-disc deal with the label. Although a far cry from being a bestseller, the title was universally lauded by hip music critics and likewise quickly became among the new breed of quiet and introspective artists to be prominently featured on "underground" FM album-oriented rock radio. "Road to Cairo" received significant airplay and became a minor hit not only for the author, but also for the Julie Driscoll-led version of Brian Auger & the Trinity. While the entire effort seems shrouded in a palpable, yet indefinable mood, the truly noir pieces -- such as the harrowing "Sonny Come Home" -- are complemented by the inviting "What a Happy Day" and the languid elegancy of "Blue Ribbons." The closest thing to an uptempo number on this disc is the restrained camp of "Laissez-Faire." The exposition-laden lyrics are well suited for use as a show tune. Ironically, despite the midtempo attempt at jollity, Ackles' vocals negate the mood, dragging it into the delicate realm of dark comedy. His dramatic abilities no doubt hearken back to his days as a child actor as well as more concurrent studies in Edinburgh, where he obtained a degree in film and minored in theater as well as ballet and choreography. The combo on this release included a notable aggregate -- who were basically in-house Elektra musicians -- most of whom would go on to form the band Rhinoceros. Backing Ackles (piano/vocals) are Michael Fonfara (organ), former Daily Flash and short-lived Buffalo Springfield member Douglas Hastings (guitar), fellow Daily Flash bandmate John Keliehor (percussion), as well as concurrent Iron Butterflyconspirators Jerry Penrod (bass) and Danny Weis (guitar). They provide an even, if not somewhat uninspired, backdrop. The artists' material and temperament would have arguably been best served in an even more sparse setting -- with Ackles accompanying himself, much in the spirit of Laura Nyro or early Tori Amos. That said, there is certainly much for the potential enthusiast to enjoy and is a worthwhile christening of Ackles' talents. ~ Lindsay Planer, All Music Guide