B-Side Guys

Chris Bullinger’s “Waitin’ to be Seen – Part 1,” released on August 22, 2024, is a compelling 12-track journey through the American songbook. This 54-minute collection serves as the first half of a double album, marking Bullinger’s transition from solar energy entrepreneur to full-time musician. The result is a work that’s both impressively expansive and deeply personal, showcasing an artist fully embracing his musical calling.

The album opens with “One Complete Connection,” a track that immediately establishes Bullinger’s songwriting prowess. His weathered vocals, reminiscent of Bob Dylan, float atop a rootsy arrangement that feels both classic and contemporary. Bullinger manages to pay homage to his influences while infusing the song with his own unique perspective, setting the tone for the album to come.

“Ain’t Life Grand” follows, injecting a dose of upbeat energy into the proceedings. Bullinger’s lyrics here showcase his observational skills, painting vivid pictures of everyday life with a poet’s eye for detail. The track’s bouncy rhythm and catchy chorus make it an early album highlight, demonstrating Bullinger’s ability to craft radio-friendly Americana without sacrificing lyrical depth.

As the album progresses, Bullinger’s range as a songwriter becomes increasingly apparent. “Doin’ Bad Good” delves into outlaw country territory, its gritty narrative and twangy guitars evoking images of dusty barrooms and hard-lived lives. In contrast, “Darln’ ‘n’ Me” takes a more psychedelic approach, its sprawling arrangement and symbolism-laden lyrics creating a dreamlike atmosphere that stands out amidst the album’s more straightforward offerings.

“Up All Night” and “Carving Tree” form a powerful one-two punch midway through the album. The former is a classic late-night lament, Bullinger’s vocals conveying a sense of weary wisdom that feels authentically lived-in. “Carving Tree” showcases Bullinger’s fingerpicking skills, its intricate guitar work providing a perfect backdrop for his poetic lyrics.

The album’s latter half maintains the high standard set by its opening tracks. “I’m Not Comin’ Back Home” captures the restless spirit at the heart of much of Bullinger’s work, balancing the romance of the open road with the reality of what’s left behind. “Gotta Save Yourself” serves as one of the album’s most introspective moments, with Bullinger’s lyrics grappling with themes of personal responsibility and self-reliance.

“Temporary Baby” injects a note of levity into the proceedings, its tongue-in-cheek lyrics and upbeat arrangement providing a welcome contrast to some of the album’s heavier moments. The album closes with “Payin’ Dues,” a New Orleans-flavored romp that feels like a fitting conclusion to this musical journey, tying together the various threads woven throughout the album.

Throughout “Waitin’ to be Seen – Part 1,” Bullinger’s vocals serve as the album’s anchor. His voice, rich with experience and tinged with a world-weary quality, brings authenticity to even the most fanciful lyrics. It’s a voice that feels equally at home in whiskey-soaked country ballads and more experimental, psychedelic tracks.

The production, helmed by the team at Nashville’s The Bomb Shelter Studios, deserves special mention. The album’s sound is warm and organic, allowing each instrument room to breathe while maintaining a cohesive overall aesthetic. The intuitive interplay between the musicians speaks to their years of working together, creating a rich sonic tapestry that rewards repeated listens.

Lyrically, Bullinger demonstrates a knack for blending the personal with the universal. His songs often focus on specific moments or characters, but in doing so, they touch on broader themes of connection, longing, and the search for authenticity. It’s clear that Bullinger’s years of writing poetry have honed his ability to craft evocative, image-rich lyrics.

At 12 tracks and 54 minutes, “Waitin’ to be Seen – Part 1” is a substantial listening experience that invites listeners to fully immerse themselves in Bullinger’s musical world. The album’s length allows Bullinger to explore a wide range of styles and themes, creating a rich and varied musical landscape.

As the first part of a larger work, “Waitin’ to be Seen – Part 1” succeeds in creating anticipation for what’s to come. It establishes Bullinger as a skilled songwriter with a deep appreciation for American musical traditions and a willingness to push beyond them. The album reflects Bullinger’s journey of reinvention and self-discovery, pouring years of pent-up creativity into every track.

For fans of literate, roots-influenced Americana, Chris Bullinger’s “Waitin’ to be Seen – Part 1” offers a rich and rewarding listening experience. It’s the sound of an artist fully committing to his craft, embracing his musical identity with passion and authenticity. As Bullinger continues to refine his voice and build on this strong foundation, he seems poised to make a significant mark on the Americana landscape. “Waitin’ to be Seen – Part 1” is a promising debut that leaves listeners eagerly anticipating the second half of this musical journey.