Bill White Acre, Billy's Not Bitter- Jon Steltenpohl

Billy's Not Bitter is a great little independent release that's reminiscent of The Lemonheads, Michael Penn, and Weezer. Given the long list of awards, credits, and brushes with greatness listed in his bio, it is truly a wonder that Mr. Bill isn't bitter.

From being picked Billboard's best song writer by Frank Zappa in 1994, producing such bands as Spew and Chyanna Davis, and fronting a band called Big Planet, Bill White Acre has been on the verge of breaking on the scene for a few years now. White Acre brings catchy pop with novel new arrangements to us on this delicious little platter that's sure to catch the attention of the major labels.

Billy's Not Bitter does a lot of things right. First, the tunes are familiar without being common. The music is founded around the alterna-pop standard guitar, bass, and drums line-up with an occasional detour to White Acre's unique unplugged sound. (In 1994, Guitar Player magazine praised White Acre as one of "those rare young players blessed with both precocious chops and bold stylistic vision.") Billy's Not Bitter" is steadfastly minimalistic without sacrificing layer upon layer of sonic twists and turns. White Acre produced the album himself, and his previous experience as a producer lends a balance and perspective to the whole album.

White Acre's lyrics tell tales of befuddled love and range from quirky to philosophical. "All 4 Love" paints the portrait of a mother who prostitutes herself while her son plays in the room next door. "All 4 Love" could be a nice little cliche on moral decay, but White Acre takes the routine a step further to the mother's suicide and the son taking up the family business for his sister.

"Counting" is probably the best bet for a single off Billy's Not Bitter, but don't hold your breath given White Acre's history of obscurity in the face critical acclaim. Instead, help keep Billy from being bitter. Take the bull by the horns and write to oralsect@aol.com for the lyrics and more info.