Powter Sugar

Artist: Daniel Powter
Album: Under the Radar

After giving the world “Bad Day,” Canadian musician Daniel Powter has moved on with an album of similarly catchy, brooding piano ballads. ”Under the Radar” is his first release since spawning the aforementioned international hit on the eponymous 2006 CD.

While there might not be another “Bad Day” here, there are a few numbers that will give fans something to feel good about.

The best work on this release is the upbeat tempo of “Next Plane Home.” It starts out with Powter’s signature piano style and soft singing, but the chorus provides an interesting twist when the piano is replaced by an echoic guitar blazing through the speakers. This song could be his best shot at getting back into the spotlight.

“Best Of Me” is the typical Powter song, using the same structure as many of his other tracks. The only difference is that this one is slightly better than average, with enough depth to keep it from getting bland. A recurring bridge consisting of a soft, wavy melody gives the listener a dose of variety. Still, it’s nothing to write home about.

“Under the Radar” is for fans of pop and soft rock music. While there might be one or two tracks anyone would enjoy, most of the songs are mediocre, easy-listening tracks.

One of the biggest problems with this album is its lack of variety. Though a few gems are scattered throughout this release, the music starts to seem the same as the disc progresses. The piano dominates every piece, but a few tracks do make good use of both electric and acoustic guitars, giving his work much-needed layering. Occasionally he adds some decent rock rhythms to help diffuse the incessant sugary-pop sound that permeates the entire album.

While Powter will always be remembered for “Bad Day,” this release will probably be forgotten.

Standout Track: “Next Plane Home” Grade: C+