Bob Silberstein: Do You Remember When

After years of playing saxophone, clarinet and flute on many stages, Bob Silberstein was inspired to write a song, "I'll Miss You, for a friend who was moving to another city, and found it so invigorating he decided to keep writing. "I'll Miss You is one of fifteen songs on Do You Remember When, all of which (lyrics and music) were composed by Silberstein.

Well, writing a song — any song — isn't easy, and Silberstein certainly deserves applause for the time and effort he has invested in the endeavor. On the other hand, writing a memorable song is another matter entirely, and it is here that Silberstein comes up short. While there's nothing ungraceful about his tunes, neither is there anything in them that produces a lasting image. The over-all impression is one of a talented amateur giving it his best shot.

I regret having to say this, but perhaps Silberstein would have been better served by a more capable singer. Patricia Long, who is heard on every track, is no better than ordinary, and that may be giving her more credit than is due. But like Silberstein, she's doing the best she can, as are bassist Sy Zucker and pianist Bob Vigoda. Long is no jazz singer, but she needn't be, as there's no jazz to be heard on the album. These are pop songs, sung candidly with genteel support and concise, saccharine comments courtesy of Silberstein's syrupy alto.

If one is looking for a quartet to play at the local country club dance, or for any number of similar events, Silberstein's group may be entirely suitable, as it may be for those who appreciate unassuming music that can be used as a quiet backdrop for unrelated activities. Those who favor jazz will have to look elsewhere.