By: Brian D. Holland
The ‘70s saw Tommy Keene do a stint as drummer in Blue Steel, a band that also featured Nils Lofgren’s brother Michael. He changed to guitar for a convincing jaunt with The Razz. He’s been churning out quality solo albums since the early ‘80s, adding to an impressive discography of timeless rock and roll, heavy laden with guitar oriented chordal arrangements and tasteful melodies.
Although he’s still labeled a pop-rock or power pop performer, both labels are deceptive alongside what’s defined as pop-rock today. It’s not to say it isn’t pop-rock, and power pop is certainly part of it, but it’s music from another era in time. With rhythm guitar attacks that cover the bases in fuzzy, distorted, and jingle-jangle hooks, it’s sometimes suggestive of the likes of The Raspberries, the Smithereens, and the Romantics.
It’s exciting to hear a performer still churn out this straightforward yet extremely melodic sound, as it’s a style that will always have a place in the music world, regardless of the decade or the pop music of the moment. Keene’s music is upbeat and exhilarating, even when the lyrics are dark and poignant.
Addictive melody and rhythmic power stands out immediately in Behind the Parade’s opening song, “Deep Six Saturday,” and continues throughout most of the CD. The follower, “Already Made Up Your Mind,” exhibits heavily inspired guitar work in an alluring melody with appealing vocal harmonies. And, being that the chiming rhythm resonance is reminiscent of Roger McGuinn, it’s interesting that the lead guitar solo two thirds through contains an ascending melody that invokes an approach akin to The Byrds. Though it’s undoubtedly hit worthy for another era in time, it should be a hit with fans of the style today as well. “Behind the Parade” is another excellent song, with vigorous melody and powerful lead and rhythm guitar tone.
Tommy displays keen vocal and lyrical qualities throughout as well. His storytelling ability is evident in the title song, as well as in “Factory Town” and “His Mother’s Son.” There’s an assortment of things to consider in these songs, as the lyrical tales are encompassed in powerful yet exceptionally pleasant rhythms and melodic poise.
“Behind the Parade” is the ideal guitar oriented power pop paradigm. Certainly music of a previous era, most of the included ten songs are pleasant reminders of the charismatic melodic presence and six-string rhythmic onslaught that was heavily influenced by rock’s British invasion.
Labeled an unsung hero for a long time now, Tommy’s definitely worthy of more recognition. He’s been an exemplary purveyor of the music for decades, an adored warrior of the style’s intensity. Not only has he mastered it, but it’s easy to tell that he’s one of the style’s foremost fans as well. Behind the Parade rocks.
