I Own That Album and CD! - Michael Penn

Michael Penn's debut album, March, which came out in 1989, is a masterclass in introspective songwriting and sophisticated pop craftsmanship. Penn quickly establishes himself as a distinctive voice in the singer-songwriter landscape of the late 80s and early 90s with this album. From the opening track "No Myth," it's clear that Penn is a storyteller at heart, blending literary lyricism with catchy melodies. The song's success on the charts helped to solidify March as an impressive debut, but the album as a whole offers much more than just a one-hit wonder.

What sets March apart is Penn's ability to weave complex emotions into his songs without ever losing our attention. Tracks like "Half Harvest" and "This & That" showcase his knack for exploring themes of love, loss, and existential reflection with a maturity and depth. The lyrics are often poetic, filled with vivid imagery and really clever wordplay, but they never feel pretentious or overwrought. Penn's voice, warm and slightly weathered, perfectly complements the melancholic yet hopeful tone of the album. My other favorites are “Innocent Ones”, a folk-tinged bittersweet ballad and “Evenfall”, a rollicking 1950’s inspired rocker, loaded with some sweet horns.

Musically, March is steeped in the rich tradition of classic pop and rock, drawing influences from the likes of The Beatles. The production, handled by Tony Berg, is clean and uncluttered, allowing Penn’s vocals and guitar work to shine. The arrangements are both intricate and accessible, with subtle layers of instrumentation that you hear more of upon repeated listens. Songs like "Brave New World" demonstrate Penn’s ability to craft memorable hooks.

While it did not propel Michael Penn to the same level of fame as some of his contemporaries (and thanks to grunge in the early 90s), the album’s artistic integrity and emotional resonance have ensured its lasting appeal. March is a testament to Penn’s talent as both a songwriter and a performer, marking the beginning of a career that, while not always in the spotlight, has been consistently marked by quality and creativity - and I can lend you the album or CD.