DAN FOGELBERG; "Full Circle" (Morning Sky) ***
Dan Fogelberg has returned to a country-rock sound that is reminiscent of his early '70s period. That's probably why he titled his new album "Full Circle." And, not surprisingly, the song's title track is a cover of the old Byrds tune written by Gene Clark.
It's nice to hear Fogelberg's clean tenor on new, original songs, such as the sing-a-long intro to "When You're Not Near Me" and the acoustic tap of "Reason to Run."
Fogelberg's lyrics are just as introspective as they were back in the '70s, and he has crafted his thoughts into universal themes. In "Once in Love," which was actually written in 1982, Fogelberg sings of the curse — or gift — of that sometimes hard-to-find emotion.
The reverent imagery of "Whispers in the Wind" and the constructive melancholy of "Reach Haven Postcard," prove that Fogelberg still has what it takes to shape poignant lyrics to mood-setting compositions. Fogelberg's "Icarus Ascending" serves as an adamant artistic statement, while "Earth Anthem," which was written by Bill Martin, is the singer's statement of conserving nature.
Fogelberg plays a majority of the instruments on the album, the exceptions being percussion. The music man also recorded the album in his home studio in Colorado.
It's good to have something new from Fogelberg, and "Full Circle" is a nice addition to any Fogelberg collection.
E-MAIL: scott@desnews.com