Richard Levinson is maybe too learned to be a pop songwriter. But, I’m sure glad he is. Even his silliest satirical songs are full of accurate historical and literature references and enough thesaurus-bending word play to make an English professor’s heart leap for joy. And, for the rest of us, it’s like a grown-up School House Rock; something fun to listen to while a little knowledge gets gently deposited into your brain. Covering topics from fundamentalist radio preachers, a sardonic view of “The War To End All Wars” and zen-like meditations on failure, Levinson’s songs are always entertaining, full of true-to-life details and there’s usually a clever turn of phrase that brings a smile to the listeners face.
What I didn't like
While the intimacy of just Richard and his keyboard is appreciated, the presentation might be a bit livelier with some added instrumentation; perhaps a guitar with drums or bass.
My overall impression
Satirical to sincere; Richard Levinson’s songs run the gamut.