Published in: Marin Independent Journal

This is the workmanlike sophomore CD from a Marin power trio fronted by San Jose native Michael Shapiro, who was raised in Las Vegas and now lives in San Rafael.
As on his eponymous 2008 debut with this band, Shapiro showcases a half-dozen original power pop songs with well-crafted hooks and a classic rock sound.
The singer-guitarist claims Hendrix and Santana as influences, but he's more reminiscent at times of Billy Joel and David Bowie. The song “Pink” in particular reflects the Bowie inspiration with its “Hey, boy” refrain. And “Old Friend” builds to a melodic crescendo of vocal harmonies and crashing guitars that recall the best of '70s and '80s radio hits.
Shapiro strikes a burly presence on stage and sings with strength and confidence and the rough edges of rock 'n' roll experience. When he was with a band he formed called Trip, he was part of a VHI Rock Across America Tour, and had the misfortune of opening for Great White the night of the tragic 2003 nightclub fire that killed 100 people, deeply affecting him emotionally.
After a period of reflection, he bounced back with his first solo album and, after moving to Marin, formed Reckless in Vegas. A thread of broken-hearted romantic love and loss runs through his songs, but a more literal and literary approach would help elevate him above other songwriters who haven't been through what he's been through. Still, “All In” (available July 20), produced by Rick Rubin cohort Sylvia Massy, is a promising collection of power pop that bodes well for a singer-songwriter who appears at the peak of his powers.
By Paul Liberatore
Marin Independent Journal