Drive

Paul J. Watkins

By:  Jennifer Neal

Rarely does a cd come across your path that’s just too unique to put into any one category.  However, Paul J. Watkins’ fourth recorded album Drive has placed itself ever so gracefully into that bin.  With lyrics written by Watkins himself and music by Mark J. Dye this cd is for poetry and spoken word lovers everywhere. 

The music behind Watkins’ words of truth and “a mission” is the most eclectic mix ever placed onto one cd.  Some tracks give you an old school metal vibe while others remind you of the old school punk days.  Then Watkins’ throws a jazzy track or two in and you’re set to have your friends ask you “What the hell is this man?” 

And what it is is in the eye of the artist.  “I’ve never been one of the crowd/God as my witness I won’t start now,” croons Paul on the album’s second track “On a Mission.”  And by this cd listeners can tell.  The lyrics are cutthroat, raw, and laced with emotion that some of us can only begin to understand.

So if you’re down for something new and different (and change is always good!) definitely give this album a listen.  Behind the madness there is a message and if you’re awake enough to understand it, then it’s for you.  And if not, then “stay cool with your drool” as Paul J. Watkins would say.

You can learn more about Paul and Drive by checking out www.cdbaby.com/cd/pauljwatkins