If you go back a few years you may remember a band called XYZ. With catchy songs, blazin' guitars and an amazing vocalist, XYZ set out to set the world on fire with classics such as "Inside Out," "Souvenirs," and "What Keeps Me Loving You." These songs did their best to showcase singer Terry Illous' soulful, melodic vocals. Unfortunately, after putting out a killer sophomore release (Hungry), XYZ became one of the many casualties of that damned Seattle invasion. But now we get to hear Terry's melodic voice once again by way of his new persona, Flynn, and his new release The Day I Spoke to Dog. Along with this new moniker, Terry brings us a much more song-oriented style while still maintaining a high level of musicianship.

Joining Flynn on this journey is his former Cage bandmate, guitarist/songwriter and longtime collaborator Jeff Northrup who sounds great on this record. But more importantly, Jeff co-wrote most of the songs on The Day I Spoke to Dog. Also helping out on the songwriting front is former XYZ alumni Pat Fontaine. Other guests include Matt Bissonette (DLR) and Vinnie Colaiuta, but it's Flynn's vocals that totally make this album. His harmonies on "Living A Lie" and lead vocals on "Well" are out of this world. Also, as a bonus, you get a modernized, laid-back cover of Free's "All Right Now."

This is a very catchy record from beginning to end, and you'll want to play it over and over again just for the sheer enjoyment of the songs. I hate to compare artists, but if Tom Petty or Bruce Springsteen could sing, this is probably what their music would sound like. I also enjoy the acoustic aspect and laid back vibe of the whole CD. I'm surprised national radio hasn't picked this up, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't. As a matter of fact, you should!

Shred Pick - You've Got Believe (4:20)

Reviewed by Henry Bocanegra

Check out The Official Flynn Website.

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