Under the House

Tim Lee makes the type of music that would've been easy to categorize as straight rock 30 years ago. However, as time progressed, an acoustic guitar backdrop and a little twang here and there, and rock became alternative country. Whatever one calls Under the House, it rocks, and that will be all most listeners need to know. Lee, a veteran of the '80s pop scene, is less concerned with evolving genres than with finding the right musical clothing in which to dress his ten songs. The arrangements — mostly acoustic and electric guitars, bass, and drums — are pretty simple, with occasional embellishments adding tasteful touches. Keyboards — sounding a lot like a string section — are added to portions of "Without Action," giving the song a classic rock feel. These arrangements also create a solid platform for Lee's rustic vocals. The production is likewise straightforward with the exception of the ambience added to Lee's voice, an effect that produces a slightly vaporous echo. All of these elements come together in the songs themselves. From the rollicking "Keep It True" (which sounds like a motto) to the quietly pensive "All That Much," Lee and his band deliver a tuneful batch of songs that holds the listener's attention. Under the House signals the return of a veteran songsmith and will be warmly embraced by both the alternative country and classic rock crowds. ~ Ronnie D. Lankford, Jr., Rovi