“Time Stands Still” is the first solo offering from ex-Rooney guitarist and vocalist Taylor Locke and despite it’s title, the record is a testament to creative momentum and personal growth for Locke. While it’s Locke’s first release as a true solo artist, it’s not your typical singer songwriter fare.
Although Locke’s bombastic and dynamic guitar playing has defined him up to this point, it is his song construction, personal story telling, and boyish tenor that come to the forefront on “Time Stands Still.” His guitar playing, which falls somewhere between the melodic drama of Brian May and the creative counterpoint of Joey Santiago, can still be found but it is the quiet moments of the album in which Locke expresses his thoughts on love, loss, nostalgia, and ultimately, maturation.
“Time Stands Still” is a wonderful blend of high fidelity sounds and home spun performances that evoke a range of emotions. The lyrics remain at the forefront of the album, leading the charge for the well arranged instruments to follow.
“I think the term ‘singer-songwriter’ sadly evokes a white guy in a coffee shop strumming a fucking g-chord all day,” explains Locke. “I think this record sounds more like a band record…the band just takes occasional smoke breaks.”