Who’s Behind The Wheel

Real Estate “It’s Real”

I quite like this song – it has a sweet sentiment and a gorgeous lead guitar part – but I can’t help but think it’s basically the answer to the question “What if Peter Buck was the only really talented member of Murmur-era R.E.M.?” The rhythm section isn’t bad; just competent and not particularly imaginative. The vocals suit the mood and lyrics, but err too much on the side of wimpy, passive and faceless. I wish the singer committed just a bit more, communicated a bit more personality. This is a song about a guy who is finding the strength to be assertive enough to be clear in expressing his feelings for someone, so it should have a gentle, maybe somewhat shy quality, but I feel like I have no idea who this guy is when he sings. A good vocalist – regardless of their technical skill – reveals something about who they are in their voice. This is lovely and very relatable song, but if it weren’t for the guitar style – which isn’t all that distinct but is nevertheless the main feature of Real Estate – it’s a bit too anonymous.

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