John Pfeiffer was gracious enough to post his review of a recent show in The Aquarian--a major entertainment publication distributed to the NY/NJ/Philadelphia regions. In case the jpeg is hard to read, I've pasted the text below.
Dave Pittenger Band LIVE!
The Stone Pony/March 21
by John Pfeiffer
Sarah Tomek drummer extraordinaire, pointed me in the direction of this next group. Actually, she was sitting in with the group and if there's one thing I've come to know, it's that if she's into a band, it's wise to check them out, as she's known for playing with some pretty diverse talents.
Hailing from Wall Township, Dave Pittenger, along with bassist Chris Anderson and Tomek, headlined Friday night's show, performing songs from Pittenger's latest CD Simple Things. Pittenger works the virtues of that title well, utilizing spacious texture to drive home his unique style.With a clear, melodic vocal style ala Elliot Smith, and a composition style in the traditional direction Matthew Sweet, Pittenger comes across like gangbusters with an album of songs that stand out strong.
This is one of those rare records that you listen to and decide you like right away. From the production to the performance, it was right where I would have put it. Self-produced with New York City session drummer Ryan Vaughn, their focus on feel and sound is right on the money.Add the fact that it was mastered by Scott Hull, (30 Amp Fuse, Aberdeen City, 38th Parallel) and you have the complete picture.
Pittenger is cut from the same cloth as guys like Ben Folds, Tom Delonge, John Rzeznik and Mathew Sweet. And that's good. With 10 surefooted songs featuring Kyle Nix on bass, Vaughn's crisp backbeats, and Pittenger and Josh Dion's keyboard work and the country tinged guitars of Dan Hindman, the disc is a perfect pop record to shake up current boring trends.
The feel of songs like "Reckless," a cool Tom Delonge vibed semi-ballad that features the trio of Pittenger, Nix and Vaughn is true stripped down rock and roll.Utilizing strong choruses and spacious bridges, the trio performs with pure ESP, setting up the vocals with team player accuracy and closing cool, disintegrating choruses. I should also mention that there are several players on this disc and Stephen Chopek contributes great drum tracks along with bass by Brian Killeen and Jeff Kerestes respectively ..ed cuts.
"In My Head"with its analog smooth Rhodes intro, digs in firmly with a laid-back groove and melody ala Joe Jackson that reaches up and punches you with a chorus that's fast and strong. This guy has learned well and wastes no time when it comes to making the point count.
"Stupid Ways"slides into a free falling Coldplay vibe.Once again, wise use of space and great Chris Martin styled choruses. The pianos ring bell clear with Charlie Rich tonality, the guitars, bringing forth visions of Nashville steel on this well-done tune.
Like I said, sometimes a record just jumps out at you and ends up being a favorite that converts the new fan. Highly recommended. The band will be in Philadelphia at The Triumph Brewery on April 30.For further information go to triumphbrewing.com and thedpband.com