Ken Lauber, Ken Lauber (side A)

Ken Lauber's second album, from 1971, follows a similar formula to his 1969 debut, Contemplation (View).  He's again teamed up with professional session musicians to perform his well-crafted songs, and his slightly innocent and awkward vocal style remains out of place against such a polished backdrop.  The songs themselves still feature hints of narrative in their lyrics, which are placed in a traditional pop structure.  While the Dylan reference remains obvious, the LA session players here, including Larry Carlton, take a more conservative and commercial approach than the Dylan associates on Contemplation (View).  Joe Osborn is the most interesting player, and the increasing prominence of funk bass shows up at times in his playing, in a way that reminds me of parts of Colin Blunstone's One Year.  The songwriting on Ken Lauber also fears a bit more forced the second time around, without the weird highlights like "Undertow".  Even song titles like "I've been a Fool" and "Follow the Wind" hint that Lauber's playing it a bit straighter here.  The recording (by Dave Hassinger, once known for his disagreement with the Grateful Dead and for hiring session players on Electric Prunes record) and cover design also feel appropriate for a commercial songwriter record of 1971.  Lauber's songwriting talent and personality still peek through in places, but Ken Lauber has fewer of the magical moments that differentiate Contemplation (View).