Reading the other reviews I was a little intimidated because I wasn't sure I could write such a technical review, but I just wanted to say that I love this CD! It is very impressive that Russ did EVERYTHING himself! It is a great CD to take with you in the car! The lyrics are very real and meaningful.

If you love music, then you'll love this CD. I mean that on many levels. If you appreciate anything and everything - from Daniel Lanois' eerie guitar work to Frank Zappa's irreverant jams - then this is the touchstone you keep going back to. Covering the gamut from pop sensibility to progressive rock, Starke's pulled off the Triple Crown of musicianship - he did it all himself, from instruments to producing. What amazes me is that the smallest detail has greatest clarity - listen to the high hat work - listen to the harmonies - listen to the ambient sounds (particularly the opening track, which boldly declares he doesn't need vocals to open an album - that's balls, baby). At times, Starke pushes himself vocally, too, which reminds me of Peter Gabriel's mammoth album, "So." You're right there with him as he climbs over the top of his register and plants an exclamation mark at the end. Listen to the words - there's a beat influence - there's a little bit of Lou Reed. You'd think this is a shotgun approach to creating music, but really it's a exact strike to the senses that sends you reeling. And I mean that in a good way. So stop fiddling around and get some real music in your CD player.

Every track on the Centerlight CD has a new and creative sound, with lyrics that are just as great. I've listened to the CD many times over and love the variety among the tracks. I never feel like I'm listening to a different variation of the same song (as is often the case with other artists' CDs). Can't wait to see the artist in concert. Bottom line...Excellent CD! Buy it!!!

Starkes' first album explores all different genres of sound from a variety of different, evident influences. While many would think this impossible, Starke pulls it off with amazing grace and professionalism. The instrument work itself sends a direct message, and when molded perfectly with "hit home" lyrics, "centerlight" is something for all to enjoy. A favorite in my player! Pick it up.