(September 25, 2024) The Frank McComb song “The Thing I Failed to Do” is a poignant reminder that relationships often rise or fall on things that seem minor rather than the grand gestures that attract our focus and attention.
In the case of this song, performed live for his album Straight From the Vault Live at Keystone Korner, the small gesture that loomed large in retrospect were words of comfort, validation and assurance. The words “I love you.” The song tells the story of the risk of holding back emotionally, particularly to a person who pours into you.
This live performance showcases McComb’s many gifts, including his expressive and rangy baritone, which reminds many of Donny Hathaway. And since this is a live performance, listeners are treated to McComb’s creativity on the electric piano. The tune opens with tone setting piano intro and concludes with McComb’s extended solo.
McComb has showcased these and other gifts throughout a career where he has carved out a reputation as a frequent collaborator with other vocalists and instrumentalists. McComb is not only known for his work in the spotlight, but he can work on projects at every level. McComb is a multi-talented artist who records, edits, mixes and masters his own music. Fans will hear that when McCombs new studio album, Artistic Hibernation drops. For now, listen to “The Thing I Failed to Do” from his live album here.
By Howard Dukes
