Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter, actor, and performer Phil Celia recently released his latest studio album in August; a short, sweet, seven-track collection entitled Through The Years.
Phil touches base with the old-school, his vintage-style vocal vibratos leading listeners into visions of the 20th-century greats; of happy-go-lucky porch sitters jamming acoustic classics to the setting sun, of elderly men recounting life stories, regrets, and hopes for better days to come. Impeccable country atmospheres swerve between cowshed chaos, heartache and bliss, as Phil taps into feelings equally feral, blessed and forward-looking, promising an apt mood for any moment you might face.
Yet, for all his flashback soundscapes, Phil Celia still spares time to stun and startle. Just check out the Gary Numan-esque synth solo on the tear-jerker, “Somedays,” or the subtle sway into indie pop during “Restless.” This is an artist who refuses to shy away from daring choices, actively testing the limits of classic country music without straying into the ridiculous. Between each painful lyrical reminiscence and soul-charging upbeat bop, Phil keeps a true sense of art at the core of his inspiration whilst easily converting country haters into admirers.
Each of Phil Celia’s bittersweet ballads is empowered by pure heart and soul, the understanding of a songwriter who’s cruised the highest waves, crashed to unspoken rock bottoms, and lived to transform his tale into an art form which resonates across the generations. Tying this album together is a spread of rich, reflective themes, from longing for what’s been and gone, to personal revelations, dreams of tranquility, family, love and faith.
Still not convinced? Phil has already been named Americana Artist of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year and Outstanding National Solo Artist, following his incredible 30 years as a recording artist. Through The Years marks the culmination of his decades’ experience on the scene; an album that’s been a lifetime in the making, and one that never could have manifested without the wisdom of age.
As Phil Celia describes in his own words,
“Through The Years is a self-produced song cycle focused on long-term relationships, aging, and ultimately faith. It’s not a record I could have written in my younger years. These songs take time. It’s a short listen, just under 30 minutes, meant to be listened to in its entirety if possible. [I] hope it resonates with all my lifelong friends and fans.”
And, as if it can’t get any better, Through The Years was created as a family effort, Phil Celia enlisting the help of his son David, brother Perry and cousin Patrick Fraracci to make this record complete. “The rest, for better or worse, is all me,” Phil adds.
So throw on your comfies, spark a cigar and lose yourself in thought as Through The Years trails pathways into your deepest self, illuminating and ruminating upon the life lessons we all need to hear, but are too scared to face. The lessons of growing old, letting go of the past and filling your later years with brighter possibilities. Our final verdict? Highly Recommended.
BELOW: Listen to Phil Celia and check out their music online. Please support Phil Celia by visiting their website and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing their music. And, as always, thank you for supporting real music.
Check out our interview with Phil Celia:
INTERVIEW: Phil Celia (CLICK HERE)
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Contact: Phil Celia
Email: info@dmoonrecords.com
Phone: 805-206-8265