cory linden - based on a true story

Cory Linden

Based On A True Story
self-released; 2013

3.7 out of 5

By Ted Rogen

The music on Cory LInden’s Based On A True Story is the kind of music that has the ability to change your mood once you start listening to it. Even if you aren't a fan of the 70’s and 80’s inspired light rock Linden is making it hard not to appreciate it because of the natural burst of serotonin it injects in your brain. There is nothing particularly edgy, or even slightly experimental about his sound but who cares. Linden makes unapologetically joyful music that not only stems from the bright guitars, horns, piano, etc. but the intonations and subtleties in his voice.

The album starts with “Hold On (To Whatcha Got),” which revolves around a simple but effective guitar progression. I thoroughly enjoyed Linden’s exuberant vocal style and enjoyed the Clapton-inspired guitar solo. It’s a solid way to start off the album and indicative of the type of songs you can expect from the rest of the album. 

One of the highlights is “The Football Song,” which has a distinct country vibe that’s rounded out with fiddle and Linden’s twang. ”If You’d Dance With Me” conjures up images of relaxing on the beach in Hawaii as it surrounds you with warm tones, bongos and Linden singing “Won't you take a chance and dance under the moonlight we can dance till the sun comes up in the morning.” Perhaps the most celebratory song on the album is “It’s A New Day,” which is an upbeat song that has some of the best horns on the album as well as an infectious vocal line by Linden. He closes with the most emotionally resonant song on the album called “Hold It Together.” Linden digs a bit deeper on this one and it proves to be a good way to close the album.

Some of Linden’s songs are a bit hokey, and you probably won't gain any indie cred mentioning his name to hipsters but who cares. Linden writes fun songs and he knows what he is doing every step of the way. If you are in the mood for unpretentious songs that make you feel like you just jumped out of the shower then I suggest spinning this album.

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