Review of new Cal Kehoe album ‘Batting Practice’

Cal Kehoe released his EP, Batting Practice, this spring. Though the singer/songwriter has clear talent, some power becomes lost in recording.

New England-based Cal Kehoe released his EP, Batting Practice, this spring. The singer/songwriter is known for live looping during his shows. With this technique, he is able to record and play back music in real time. Therefore, multi-layered performances can occur with only one person on stage. In a pre-recorded album context, the novelty of this audience experience is lost. Possibly due to this, something seems to be missing from Batting Practice. The record stands on its own as a solid effort. However, it is lacking a power in performance that listeners desire.

Batting Practice opens with a track entitled “Heads Up!” It is clear from the start that Cal Kehoe features strong instrumentation in his work. The artist’s voice is additionally skilled. However, it comes across as a bit thin in this initial song. His rock-pop-funk style is enjoyable, but the lyrics seem out of place stylistically. “Heads Up!” feels like an obligatory and unnecessary "party" track.

Cal Kehoe finds his stride

“Fiasco” comes up second on Batting Practice. With slight grit in Kehoe’s voice, the sound grows instantly fuller and more mature. Though not catchy in the traditional sense, snazzy bass lines and hints of funk happily propel the audience forward. “Fiasco” is a driving tune and true highlight on the album.

Next, Cal Kehoe adds a dash of country and a smidge of Counting Crows to his sound in “Molly.” Listeners feel the intentionality of this song in a palpable way. However, the vocals seem to have lost something in production. In a live setting, “Molly” is likely a higher-impact piece.

A cover of the Postal Service song, “Such Great Heights,” is next. In an interesting interpretation, Kehoe creates an almost piano-bar rendition of the formerly simple and vaporous tune. Though that metamorphosis makes for a marked gear shift, it is not necessarily a bad one. One again, great key and string work shine throughout “Such Great Heights.”

Batting Practice ends with “Running in Circles.” Relatively catchy vocals contain something almost Jason Mraz in style throughout this tune. Listeners are left with the sense that “Running in Circles” never completely comes to fruition. However, it is an enjoyable ride nonetheless.

Cal Kehoe turned in a solid record with Batting Practice. Listeners will likely be inspired to check out his live show after hearing the album. With impressive guitar work and a funky-folk edge, this is not the last audience will hear from Kehoe.