Chris Koster's debut album, Secrets of the Lonely, was released in early 2005. Recorded at the Tragically Hip's studio in Bath, Ontario, Secrets of the Lonely is a passionate and at times haunting disc, which can be melancholy and hopeful all at once. Secrets of the Lonely reveals Chris' wisdom beyond his years. Listening to the disc one cannot help but feel that we are all alone; we come into the
world alone, we will leave it alone, but it is the interactions with each other that allow us to live. Maybe that is one of the Secrets of
the Lonely.
The album showcases Chris' strong songwriting abilities with skillfully crafted songs. Through his songs Chris reveals that he understands people; he understands you, he understands what it is like to live, as we all do, alone, inside our heads.
Secrets of the Lonely contains 14 original songs, a cover of Prince's When U Were Mine, and a track that is just a minute of silence (perhaps placed on the disc to allow some listeners to catch their breath and others time to reflect). It is not surprising that Koster covers Prince – like the American music icon, it is difficult to label Chris as a specific genre of music. In addition, similar to Prince, Chris plays numerous instruments on the album and frequently is the only performer on a song.
Performing with both a five-piece rock band (dubbed The Lonely), and as a solo act, Chris delivers unique, compelling, and stimulating
live performances. Chris is capable of seamlessly tying together rock, folk, and pop into a distinct ear-catching sound. His music, powerful voice, and engaging lyrics are the attraction, but his on-stage humor and charisma make live shows unique and gratifying.
Listening to the Secrets of the Lonely reveals how Koster's songs can speak to all of us, but maybe more importantly, how they speak
for themselves.
B.W. Murphy |
