Ad Vanderveen is one of those artists who has been making consistently engaging music over the course of several decades but has yet to achieve the due recognition in the U.S. that he so decidedly deserves. Disappearing Act is, contrary to the title, a very present example of his sensitivity and circumspection. His songs are carefully construed to connect with the listener through emotion and engagement, thanks to the comfort and caress inherent in each of its tender offerings. Vanderveen sings with a deep feeling and utter sensitivity that ensures both meaning and melody remain in absolute equilibrium, each with the other. “You can’t beat fear with fear, hate with hate,” he sings, offering up a mantra that’s well worth remembering.

By Lee Zimmerman