Chicago singer/songwriter Ron Lazzeretti writes simple songs of love and redemption, alternately dark, funny and buoyant. His first record, Battle Of The Planets (2012), mixed a distinct Americana-style sensibility with an unexpected touch of pop.
His 2023 release, Fat Head, Sunday Paper, heads further down that path, this time with a heavier emphasis on rock as played live.
Fat Head, Sunday Paper was released on Sept 29 and was preceded by an in-studio on WGN TV’s Midday News and local airplay and attention from Chicago blogs. Ron celebrated the release with a sold out show at Fitzgerald’s Sidebar on Sept 30 and has since hosted a sold out holiday show at the venue.
Fat Head, Sunday Paper opens with the multilayered “Walking Away Feeling Alone,” which is ensued by the slyly biographical/autobiographical “I’m Writing.” “My Little Lamb” follows suit with lyrics that reference both “Easter Sunday” and “Apocalyptic love and tenderness.”
“If I Ever Leave Here” is a wise and tender precursor to the blunt, muscular “Count Down By Threes”: Count down by threes/Kill all the lights/Nobody died today. “Timpani Drum” is the album’s lyrical standout as it fearlessly blends Johnny Cash’s timeless “story songs” with Bob Dylan’s best poetic abstractions.
“Think Of Something to Say” is the point on the album where Lazzeretti and his band come together most seamlessly: a strong lead vocal, gorgeous backing vocals, accordion, and tasty roadhouse guitar. “Keep Talking, Baby” strips things down a bit but benefits from wonderful percussion and strong harmonies.
Fat Head, Sunday Paper closes with the evocatively titled torch and twang song “Banners and Champagne Wine” and the Maya Angelou, Saint Bernadette, and Neil Diamond -referencing “Roadside, Near Peru.”
The album was produced by Ron Lazzeretti and Michael Krayniak; recorded and mixed by John Abby at Kingsize Sound Labs; mastered by Blaise Barton at Joyride Studios.
Ron Lazzeretti, guitar, vocals
And on Davis, lead guitar
Michael Krayniak, bass
Paul Bivans, drums
Isaac Lyons, piano, organ, accordion
Ton Kneesel, pedal steel
Naomi Ashley, vocals
Jenny Bienemann, vocals
Jodi Pulick Walker, vocals
