compiled by Tom Brennan
last updated: February 21, 2005

Born during the height of Badfinger's career, Owen Gibbins, son of Mike and Gaynor Gibbins has released his first CD of all-original songs, albeit only an EP length release. "Gibbo" or "Bedroom Boy" as he is called on this release, shows many moments of brilliance on this release. The musicianship and production is excellent throughout, as is the songwriting. The only complaint I have is that Owen's singing voice at times sounds a bit forced ("Face In The Dirt", "On My Way", "Secret Garden", "Signal Sender"), and it's hard to understand the lyrics. On the contrary, his ballad singing is where he really shines. I hope he decides to use his more "natural" singing voice on future recordings. "Caving In" and "It's No Secret" really showcase his excellent voice. It gives me chills when he sings, "It's no secret I love her." Dad, Mike Gibbins, plays his typically excellent Rock solid drumming throughout, and can even be heard counting-in the track on "Secret Garden". If Mike decides to bring Madfinger on the road, let's hope that Owen comes along to play guitar and perform some of these tracks also.

The band:
Owen Gibbins: vocals, all instruments (except drums)
Mike Gibbins: drums

Recorded over a 7-month period in the summer of 1998 at Exile Music, Orlando, Florida.
Produced by Owen Gibbins.
notes from mikegibbins.com:
"Secret Garden" was the result of experimenting in the studio between Mike's recording of "More Annoying Songs". Mike laid down the drums for "Secret Garden" in about 2 or 3 takes, even though he'd never heard the songs before! Styles range from the mellow lilt of Badfinger and The Beatles to the Rock of Mountain and Metallica. Now is your chance to hear Mike's departure from his solid "in the bag" drumming to out and out jamming power!

Here is the track listing:
1. Face In The Dirt [3:13]
2. On My Way [3:09]
3. Caving In [4:01]
4. Secret Garden [2:42]
5. It's No Secret [3:37]
6. Signal Sender [4:06]