Dave Goddess Group - Kitty Hawk EP (2025)

Sounding a little like a rural Bruce Springsteen on the opening cut “Tin Foil Hat” & the rootsier “Wild & Willing,” both are saved by Dave’s individualistic prowess. This new Dave Goddess Group effort cooks nicely & consistently. The Springsteen comparison is solely in the tonality & intonation, but the tunes themselves are wholly Goddess in spirit. The second tune has a little Rick Danko in it & this is why the mention of Springsteen is for reference only.

The album is relatively short, but it has its expressiveness chiseled into the repertoire. It has a traditional sophistication in its weave, & the addition of a strong female backup vocal is a bonus, providing a convenient contrast to Goddess’ voice. The surprise for me was track 3’s “Hey Romeo,” where Dave sounds closer to the great, but somewhat obscure in America, singer-songwriter Dirk Hamilton. Those familiar with Dirk’s work will know what I mean. “Hey Romeo” is a wonderful song with creative lyrics & a pinch of eccentric Americana (ala Hamilton-style).

While I don’t hear (this time) the rollicking aggressive rock of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s John Fogerty in any of these new songs, the most commercially viable tune with its country rock energy is “Lucky Guy.” Good poetic lyrics & a super catchy melody.

Each song on this collection has its colorful hue. Dave is a good song craftsman. His musicians embellish his sticky melodies with performances that linger in the ears long after they’re played. “Someone Worth Waiting For” is another mainstream nugget that would work as a single.

Goddess’ voice is smooth as chocolate pudding, but it has its crushed bits of shortbread cookie spread throughout his range. Makes for an interesting listen since he doesn’t sound like a Valium-induced angst-ridden vocalist. His voice is assured, authoritative & commanding. A little 50s-inspired sax (think “Wild Weekend” by the Rockin’ Rebels) on the next batch of songs would support him well.