Dave Vamfer – ‘Find The Sound’ [Album Review]

UK-based singer-songwriter Dave Vamfer, aka David Reggie Phillips, recently reissued his album, Find The Sound, which is hard to pigeonhole because Vamfer’s sound is wide-ranging, including elements of rock, EDM, pop, blues, samba, reggae, bluegrass, jazz, and folk.

Vamfer says, “I make music because I love music. Music has, and continues to give me, pleasure in many forms, including excitement, relaxation, escapism, and solace.”

He goes on to explain, “A reissue of my first, and so far, only album, with a different track order, and three track changes. ‘Keep On Coming’ is a different version that has proved more popular than the original, Dark Dawn Blues’ is a shorter version that has proved more popular than the original, and ‘Tricks of Life Medley’ replaces a live track. The live track is a poor recording of a good song; the recording was not up to the standard of the rest of the album. I was pleased with the original album, but I believe this version is significantly better.”

Embracing 10 tracks, suggested entry points on the album include “Keep On Coming EDM,” with its thumping, pushing beat topped by undulating waves of luminous synths, hints of psychedelia, and soft, radiant vocal harmonies.

The balladic folk flavors of “Waiting A Lifetime” infuse the tune with suggestions of Gordon Lightfoot and The Kinks. Tints of Gaelic savors give the song a nostalgic tang, almost like a sea shanty.

Dave Vamfer, photo courtesy of Dave Vamfer

With “If There’s A Purpose?,” Vamfer offers a sweet, bluesy taste of jazz. Guitar, piano, bass, and brush sticks reveal a charming melody that gets under your skin because of its alluring simplicity.

“Dark Dawn Blues” summons up memories of Stevie Ray Vaughn with its sleazy blues-rock textures. A personal favorite because of its gentle, swaying flow, the jazzy title track features seductive brass tones and an elegant piano.

There’s a definite retro, Brit Invasion sensation to Find The Sound, with Dave Vamfer showing off his leaning toward vintage sounds.

Find The Sound Track Listing:

1. Keep On Coming EDM
2. Because We’re Ending
3. So Happy
4. Waiting A Lifetime
5. If There’s A Purpose?
6. Dark Dawn Blues
7. Scarborough Fair
8. Find The Sound
9. Because We’re Ending-Reprise
10. Tricks of Life Medley

Run Time: 39:15
Release Date: July 12, 2025
Record Label: Independent