Whistlin’ in the Dark

Description

Whistlin’ in the Dark is the third solo album by the American singer and songwriter Bryan Duncan, formerly lead singer of Sweet Comfort Band, released on Modern Art Records in 1987, a division of Modern Entertainment. Manufactured and distributed by both Word and A&M Records. The album was produced and engineered by Larry Brown at his 440 Sound Recorders. Arranged by Bryan Duncan and Brown. All songs written or co-written by Bryan Duncan.

In the early ’80s, Bryan Duncan emerged from the dismantled Sweet Comfort Band, tentative and trying to evaluate his place in Christian music. Through his first two solo albums it was apparent that he was still embroiled in that inner struggle. With the release of Whistlin’ in the Dark, Duncan has finally conquered his doubts and firmly established in his own mind who he is as an artist and what he feels called to do.

Whistlin’ in the Dark, with a thoroughly produced, slick pop sound, keeps its edge by adding just enough jazzy tidbits to keep things a little unpredictable. These songs are some of Duncan’s most mature writing. His up-tempo material often reflects his playful sense of humor while sneaking in the truth, and his ballads reveal a more reflective and sensitive side of Bryan Duncan, the artist.

The strongest part of Whistlin’, however, is Duncan’s voice. While some great voices become just another instrument, Duncan’s becomes an extremely effective communication tool. He doesn’t just sing the lyrics; every nuance reveals new and deeper meanings.

Musically, the album’s highlight is the sax playing of Glen Myerscough. For some reason few Christian artists utilize the emotive qualities of the saxophone. To his credit, Duncan does, and with great success.

The best songs on this album are the title song, «Paradise», «Every Heart Has an Open Door», and «You’re Never Alone» – but a listing of the best songs is up to you… the entire album is a hit. [Devlin Donaldson, CCM, November 1987]

> Apple Music (https://music.apple.com/us/album/whistlin-in-the-dark/1507703828)

LP tracklist:

Side One
A1. “Whistlin’ In The Dark” – 3:34
A2. “Paradise” – 3:55
A3. “All My Life” – 3:46
A4. “Break Out Of Chains” – 4:41
A5. “When I Think Of Home” – 3:21

Side Two
B1. “Every Heart Has An Open Door” – 4:55
B2. “You Can Rely On Me” – 4:45
B3. “Help Is On The Way” – 4:05
B4. “You’re Never Alone” – 3:22

Note: Simultaneously released on cassette, 12-inch vinyl LP, and CD by Modern Art Records. Re-issued on CD by Retroactive Records in January 2021, remastered with 8-page booklet in jewel case with lyrics.