DAVE GILBERT: DGB Three

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San Diego guitarist-singer-songwriter Dave Gilbert is certainly living the dream as validated in his EP release, DGB Three. The three-track offering is short and sweet but is jam packed with a high energy rockin’ vibe. Gilbert is joined by Tim Butler on bass, Kelly Jones on keys, and Randal Jones on drums, recorded by Michael Head at Cabeza Records.

The Dave Gilbert Band was formed in 2012 with his longtime bandmates, which are listed above. They perform regularly on stages throughout San Diego County, including the annual Ocean Beach Street Fair in addition to Butler and Gilbert’s monthly duo gig at Zel’s in Del Mar.

The opening track, “Livin’ the Dream,” a lively rocker, comes roaring out of the gate behind the band’s driving groove and Gilbert’s lead vocal. “Livin’ the dream can get pretty mean, two steps forward, one step back, Like a well-oiled machine, living the dream it ain’t what you think, gotta stay humble, gotta give thanks for all we receive” with guest backup vocalist Delci Primous providing lush vocal harmony on the choruses.

The funky groove on the second track, “It’s What It Is,” sets the stage behind Gilbert’s muse. “Hoping someday in this land, that I call mine, we get together for the sake of all mankind.” There’s a mellifluous dreamy vocal interlude arranged by guest vocalist Cathryn Beeks that provide a slick vocal harmony passage with Gilbert before returning to the established funk riff.

The closing track, “Be Mindful,” is a tender ballad professing Gilbert’s love to his wife. “Please say that you’ll be mine, until the end of time,” highlighted by a silky-smooth electric guitar solo interlude by Gilbert amid colorful Beatles-esque chord changes.

Gilbert’s goal in only producing a three-track EP is hoping that it will leave people wanting to hear more, so if you’re inclined to do so, take a listen on all major streaming platforms through davegilbert.hearnow.com/3