Leave No Millionaire Behind

Album Review

Northeast Public Radio commentator and multi-instrumentalist Pierce Woodward eloquently does his part to make a difference on his release Leave No Millionaire Behind. His politically-charged folk songs are directly influenced by Arlo and Woody Guthrie and Seegers of the past, with a similarly fiery demeanor, and a righteous passion for what he believes in. Ably supported by members of the Mammals and a number of West Coast folkies, the songs range from traditional fiddle tunes with re-imagined lyrics, to heavy indie rock numbers, all of which focus closely on his progressive political views and an unflagging desire to spread the word. Like an informational pamphlet with speakers, the album ranges widely in musical style and tempo, but Woodward never veers from his driving social commentary and gently straining voice. The whole project is summed up nicely in the protest song "Amy Got Arrested," in which Woodward states "Everybody's pissed off at the President," and while that simplifies the many ideas on Leave No Millionaire Behind it certainly exemplifies his straight-ahead views on the events of the world and his youthful enthusiastic certainty that he can change them.