This one popped into my head unbidden the other day, and I realized I probably hadn't heard it any time this century, which seems a shame. (Apparently I long ago lost my autographed copy of the CD).
I should add that back in the '80s, when I was living in Hoboken, there was a very cool record store about half way between the PATH train station and my apartment, and I used to stop in from time to time on my way home (from work in Manhattan at Stereo Review). Otis may or may not been the store's proprietor, but he was behind the counter pretty regularly and I would chat with him while browsing the latest cool stuff. He was a charmingly dweebish guy, and I was unaware of his musical career until Bar/None Records sent me a copy of his album at the magazine.
I just looked for him online, and apparently he's gone pretty much underground, so I can't tell you if he's still making music, but you can hear the album in its entirety over at YouTube HERE. Trust me -- it's worth your attention.
6 comments:
a cheerful tune - refreshingly honest lyrics
not directly relevant, except tangentially, but I just came across it this morning - https://www.youtube.com/@whatitwaslikepodcast
very real - listener advisory - some may like it - narrated by people who got through it, whatever it was
long and winding road - there are places I remember - they can't take that away from me
Record store was Pier Platters, I believe, and I am pretty sure Otis only worked there.
He and I hung out a bit. He'd come to NYCD, and I'd see him at record shows. He is still somewhat active on Facebook. Good guy.
Pier Platters, yes! Thanks, that was driving me crazy trying to remember that!!!
Deus caritas est!
liked what I heard, problem is at that time you needed major label support. He was recommended to Bar/None a local studio by They Might Be Giants (Factory Showroom - James K Polk / Electra records) their original label As nuts as TMBG are they found major label, he sorely was overlooked.
PS- we had many local professional studios where I grew up - Wild Weeds, Trod Nossel found fame there
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