The Guitar Man marks David J's first solo release since 1992's Urban Urbane (excluding his 1996 collaboration with Alan Moore and Tim Perkins) and, while only containing four songs, this is a solid release (and a preview of J's sixth solo album). He recaptures the '70s soft rock chestnut The Guitar Man (originally done by Bread), updating it with his distinctive vocal charm (much like his Love and Rockets/Bauhaus counterpart, Daniel Ash, did with the '60s soft rock Spooky). His most ambitious reworking here, though, is Marilyn Manson's The Dope Show, which he approaches with a deconstructed take that lays bare the melody and the vocals with magnificent results. There are two versions of The Auteur included, with the first featuring a pleasant melody and vocals that lilt by while the second version is remixed by the Thievery Corporation and adds some very funky backbeats and compelling Middle Eastern singing by Jennifer Folker. There's also Mickey Rourke Blues (perhaps a Lloyd Cole tribute in the title choice?), with some unique sound effects working as a compelling melody. David J's influence on the music community can be evidenced by the appearance of Dave Navarro (Jane's Addiction, Red Hot Chili Peppers), Stephen Perkins (Jane's Addiction), and Mark Kozelek (Red House Painters) as his backing band. Welcome back David J -- you've been missed! ~ Simon Cantlon, Rovi

1		The Guitar Man
2		The Auteur
3		The Dope Show
4		Mickey Rourke Blues
5		The Auteur [Thievery Corporation Remix]

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