Souvenirs - DAN FOGELBERG****

Part Of The Plan/Illinois/Changing Horses/Better Change/Souvenirs/The Long Way/As The Raven Flies/Song From The Half Mountain/Morning Sky/(Someone's Been) Telling You Stories/There's A Place In The World For A Gambler

Singer songwriter Dan Fogelberg’s follow up album Souvenirs catapulted him into the upper echelons of the US album chart. He would maintain this level of commercial success for the next decade. (US:17)

“There are some OK songs on this album, but when Fogelberg pours on the sensitive guy schlock it can really get out of hand so be warned. Still, there are some songs with actual guts to them and they stand out well above the rest. Illinois sticks the closest to the MOR format of the good tunes, but manages to go a step beyond with good lyrics, and smart production. However, there are still lots of those over the top moments that turn to pure saccharine.”

“Dan Fogelberg is a singer-songwriter who has his creative feet in several musical worlds, spanning rock, pop, country and folk. He has never been a flashy artist, coming across as almost shy and more focused on his art than on being caught up in the media hype that so seems to snare so many musicians. Fogelberg is a throw back to the days when music was more honest and familiar, a modern minstrel singing to please himself and whatever audience will listen.”

“Fogelberg's first real taste of commercial success, this album features what many still consider his signature song, Part Of The Plan. It moves gently through the first side, Illinois expresses a wistful longing for home, while the title track is a walk down memory lane. Side two rocks a bit more, with the somewhat caustic As The Raven Flies warning of the pitfalls of relationships. Morning Sky is pure bluegrass. The list of musicians who contributed to this album reads like a virtual who's who of the folk-rock genre. This album is an essential part of any Fogelberg collection.”

“Dan Fogelberg combines multiple talents as well as any artist I have ever heard. Just check all the instruments he plays, combined with fine lyrics and a remarkable ability to cross multiple styles with equal sincerity.”

“The album's ethereal, almost spiritual frankness continues long after its last notes fade. Combine Dan's clear, sensitive voice with his deft handling of numerous instruments, and you come away with the sensation that this musical poet has just touched your heart.”